WH Smiths Swindon HQ set to be demolished and replaced with over 200 homes
The high street giant has received permission to topple the Greenbridge site
Controversial plans to knock down WH Smiths' Greenbridge headquarters in Swindon have been approved.
The demolition of the historic landmark is now expected to go ahead, after proposals were given the green light by the Borough Council.
The approval is initially for outline planning permission only, meaning specific details of the houses will have to be submitted later.
The master plan layout shows properties arranged around a central green square, with footpaths into the site from all sides and access for motorists from Greenbridge Road.
'The optimal strategy to retain jobs'
Despite the announcement, Smiths insists it remains committed to Swindon.
"The sale of the site with a planning permission is considered to be the optimal strategy to enable the relocation of operations and retaining jobs, with the intention to remain in Swindon," a company spokesperson said.
The Twentieth Century Society had tried the prevent the office and warehouse being demolished, by having it listed.
The architectural group argued the 1960s building was of historical importance, because of its arched roof.
Stratton St Margaret Parish Council also objected to the planning application, arguing the area was not suitable for a housing estate. The local authority feared it would worsen traffic congestion on Dorcan Way.
There were also concerns that some of the new rooms would be too small to live in. Other fears were over insulation, to counter high noise levels from passing lorries, and that the site's single entrance may cause a bottleneck for emergency vehicles called to the properties.
North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson and Covingham and Dorcan councillor Dale Heenan have both pledged their support to the land sale.
The estate will connect with the 134 houses already being built on a smaller site, previously sold to housing company Keepmoat.