Plans for two decommissioned red telephone boxes in Melksham are being revisited by the town council, as they have remained unused despite several proposals since their adoption in 2020.
The council adopted the boxes—one on Spa Road and the other on Littlejohn Avenue near the Pig and Whistle pub—from BT in 2020. After tidying them up, the council sought suggestions from community groups in 2021 regarding potential uses for the boxes. However, the response was described as “underwhelming,” which led the council to consider repurposing the boxes as information hubs for the town.
Since then, the council has held several discussions regarding various ideas for repurposing the boxes, including converting them into a mini library, housing a defibrillator, creating flower displays, or establishing local WiFi hotspots. However, no actions have yet been taken.
At last month’s community development committee meeting, councillors discussed the current state of the boxes, noting that the Littlejohn Avenue box has sustained damage and vandalism. “The one on Spa Road is in pretty decent shape,” said Cllr Jennie Westbrook.
Reflecting on past suggestions, Cllr Adrienne Westbrook recalled a proposal to use one of the telephone boxes for health information. “The phone box opposite Canberra [on Spa Road] could be used for putting posters about health for young people – I think that’s a good idea,” she said.
Deputy Clerk Hayley Bell said, “I think there are some quite unique ideas we could pursue. We could think a little bit outside the box and make these a distinctive feature in Melksham.”
Councillors agreed that more research was needed to determine the most practical and beneficial use for the boxes. It was unanimously resolved that the deputy clerk would investigate additional options and report back at the next community development meeting. In the interim, the council gave permission to liaise with local charities and community groups about possible temporary uses.
