Old Sarum Airfield development given green light on appeal
The Planning Inspectorate's ruled in favour of the site's owners
Last updated 9th Apr 2025
Controversial plans for more than 300 homes at Old Sarum Airfield have been approved by the Planning Inspectorate - despite numerous objections.
The decision was taken to an appeal by the landowners, after Wiltshire Council refused permission for the housing, along with a 'flying hub', visitor centre and infrastructure.
An inquiry held earlier this year heard evidence from developers, who said the construction was needed to help secure the future of the site.
But campaigners have long argued that the area can't cope with more housing, while the heritage airfield also needed protecting.
The Planning Inspectorate's decision, published today (Wednesday 9th April) states:
"The appeal is allowed and planning permission is granted for the above described outline application with all matters reserved, except means of access to the site."
The Save Old Sarum Group have expressed their disappointment, in a statement given to Greatest Hits Radio:
"We are deeply disappointed and dismayed by the planning inspector's decision regarding Old Sarum airfield. This outcome represents a significant setback for local aviation enthusiasts, the community, historical preservation efforts and indeed, the heritage and significance of both the site itself and that of the setting of the Old Sarum Ancient Monument.
"We believe the inspector's assessment failed to adequately consider the historical significance of the site, the impact on local amenities, the economic potential of the airfield, the environmental impact and the continuing degradation of Roman Road. This decision undermines the preservation of the unique aviation heritage, the sustainable development of the region and the needs of the local community.
"We will be exploring all available options to address this unjust outcome and if we are ultimately unsuccessful, we trust and hope that the developers will do the honourable thing and deliver all the promises and undertakings they assured the public they would.“
Wiltshire Council response
The local authority say they're 'disappointed' with the outcome.
Parvis Khansari, Corporate Director – Place at Wiltshire Council, said: “The outline planning application for around 315 residential dwellings and a mixture of employment, commercial, leisure and aviation uses at Old Sarum Airfield was refused by the council’s Strategic Planning Committee in August 2024.
“The application was refused for several reasons, including concerns over highways issues and access to the site and the close proximity to the Old Sarum Scheduled Ancient Monument and its surrounding Conservation Area.
“The applicant decided to appeal against the council’s decision and a lengthy public inquiry took place earlier this year. Disappointingly, despite our best attempts to defend the decision, the independent Planning Inspector has decided that the benefits outweigh the negatives, concluding that planning permission should be granted.”
The Airfield's owners have been contacted for comment.