Former Assize Courts, Devizes

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Last revised: 7 October 2008

Assize Courts

Update 28th December 2006

An Options Appraisal for the future of one the most problematic buildings in Devizes is in the course of being prepared. For many years the community of the Devizes area has been concerned at the dilapidated condition of this former civic building. As a result of increasing disquiet during 2006 the District Council and the Wiltshire Historic Buildings Trust have established a project team involving a number of partners to determine a way forward. The team also comprises representatives from Devizes Town Council, the Trust for Devizes, the Devizes Development Partnership, the Community Foundation for Wiltshire, and English Heritage all of whom are seeking to find a deliverable rescue package.

Mr George McDonic, Chairman of the Historic Buildings Trust, said “The Trust is pleased to announce that a significant step forward has been taken by the appointment of the Architecton architectural practice and De Facto project management Ltd. The Options Appraisal will examine the constraints and opportunities relating to the building and the financial background. It will also outline proposals for future use and identify potential sources of funding.”

Councillor Mrs Thelma Carr, Champion for Planning, commented “This is an iconic listed building situated at a key location on one of the main entrances to the historic core of Devizes. We are very hopeful that the restoration of the building will be a key factor in the regeneration of this part of the town.”

The current owners however unexpectedly put the property up for sale by auction on the 14th December. It is understood however that the property was not purchased and the auctioneer’s web site indicates that the building remains "available". Additional information is being sought on the owner's future intentions, but members of the team are of the firm opinion that any valuation of the building has to be reached on a realistic basis.

The final Options Appraisal report, which hopefully will be the catalyst that sparks a realistic way forward, should be available to the partners in March 2007.