‘Let’s put Melksham on the map!’ Town council announce exciting plans for town centre

MELKSHAM Town Council has announced exciting new plans to regenerate the town centre. 

The news coincides with the launch of a new monthly market in the Market Place this weekend, the Melksham Makers’ Market, which the council hopes will kick-start a run of events throughout the year.

Other plans include, free parking days to encourage the community to shop local; live music in the Market Place; medieval-themed events in September to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the town’s Market Charter; and tidying up disused buildings in the town.

Community engagement officer for Melksham Town Council, Debbie Bentley said, “Spring is here and the town council is  hoping that it brings with it a new beginning for the Market Place, and Melksham town centre, with the launch of the new Melksham Makers’ Market kick-starting events for the year on the Saturday 27th April. 

“This year marks the 800th anniversary of Melksham being granted licence to hold markets, and what better way to mark the occasion than with the launch of a new fantastic market celebrating all things handmade and homemade? 

“A gala weekend of medieval events will also be happening in September this year and will see further use of the Market Place, as well as events around the town. 

“The town council is keen to celebrate all the local shops and businesses in the area and as well as supporting the Melksham Makers’ Market, will be using the allocation of their free parking days to support shop local events in the town, which will coincide with days the Makers’ Market will be taking place. 

“We are keen to be involved in ensuring our town is attractive to others and as part of our commitment, we have been speaking with the agents of the Tavern and will be working alongside the Melksham in Bloom team to ensure the outside spaces are kept tidy and planters are maintained until the building is sold.

“The town council is also seeking local musicians and buskers to perform in the Market Place to provide entertainment and help encourage people to stay longer and explore the town centre. 

“In addition, our clerk continues to liaise with the agents, who will be talking to the owners, to see what can be done to reduce fly-posting on the window boards, such as putting vinyl on them to improve their appearance. 

“We are speaking with other local businesses, including the Kings Arms, to see what else may be able to be done to add to the atmosphere of the town and encourage visitors from both within and outside Melksham. 

“Melksham Town Council is keen on working with all local businesses to promote Melksham and help ensure that it’s on the map.”

Makers’ Market

The first Melksham Makers’ Market will be held on Saturday 27th April from 10am to 3pm in the Market Place. The market is being organised by local makers Sarah Hillman and Nicola Coleman who have been working hard with the town council’s Debbie Bentley to ensure the market showcases talented artists and makers from Wiltshire.

“We’re really excited about the crafts which will be on show at the first market, in particular the beautiful, handmade silver jewellery from Katy Wilkinson Jewellery, as well as the gorgeous handmade textiles from Florrie & Jean,” said Nicola.

Sarah added, “We also have a selection of homemade brownies and cakes from Sandridge Brownies & Bakes for those of you with a sweet tooth, along with some tasty treats for your furry four legged friends from Happy Hounds Bakery.  There’s also a great selection of gifts on offer from The Secret Crocheter and some stunning hand carved wooden items from Wiltshire Wood Art.

“To see all the wonderful things on offer, please come and support our local market on Saturday 27th!”

Any musician wishing to enquire about performing at the Melksham Makers’ Market should contact the town council on: 01225 704187 or via email: townhall@melkshamtown.co.uk

Please contact themelkshammakersmarket@yahoo.com for more information about the market or to enquire about having a stall at the event.