A CAMPAIGN has been launched to restore Melksham House back to its former glory, creating a multi-use “civic space”.
Members of the Melksham Conservatives group have suggested a number of uses for the historic Grade II listed building, which has remained empty for over 10 years since Wiltshire Council purchased the building.
An expansion of the function room to allow for events to be hosted; offices for business start-ups, small businesses and community groups; an art gallery; and a possible coffee shop are some of the ideas that have been put forward.
The group says that discussions are in their early stages, but work is already underway to secure government funding for the project.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Wiltshire councillor Phil Alford, who represents Melksham Without North & Shurnhold, said, “Melksham House needs to have its future community use determined as part of the campus project and as a group we are working to secure the best possible outcome for it.
“We have been having discussions around how the site can be refurbished for use by the community but the ambition is to have it further developed to see it fully upgraded.
“We want the function room expanded so it can host events and to have the rooms and skittle alley converted to offices and meeting rooms. There is scope for it to include a gallery, coffee shop and offices for start-ups or other small businesses and community groups making it a great civic space.
“Obviously these discussions are in their early stages, how it evolves is open to further talks and there is work to be done but we are getting the ball rolling on it now.
“Michelle Donelan MP is taking a lead on part of the funding and we are working on putting a bid in to the government Levelling Up Fund for several million, this will go alongside money from Wiltshire Council with the aim of producing a 21st century facility in an 18th century house.
“Like so many of these things getting the right result is about influence, planning, timing and money but we have a goal and it’s an opportunity we don’t want to miss.”
As reported in Melksham News in March, Wiltshire Council has yet to confirm the future use of the building.
