Works have started to prepare the former Cooper Tires site for demolition ahead of its redevelopment into a mixed-use scheme with housing, employment space and leisure facilities.
The historic three-acre site was sold last month to Melksham Development Company, which plans to regenerate the area. The factory closed in December 2023 after more than a century as one of the town’s major employers, and the site has remained vacant since
Director of Melksham Development Company Michael Hirst said, “We are removing redundant pipework and racks and associated equipment around the site and generally tidying up.
“We are currently undertaking R&D asbestos surveys of all buildings on site. Keystone ecology is undertaking bat surveys, and these will form part of the prior approval to demolish the buildings.
“We are hoping to have all surveys completed by mid-September, and look to begin safe asbestos removal and demolition of buildings on the site thereafter.”
The developers told Melksham News they hope to work closely with local people as part of the transformation. They said they are ‘committed to making the site fit for development in a timely manner’ and plan to begin early interaction with the local community and councillors before submitting a planning application for the demolition of existing buildings and the formation of a new mixed-use development.
The site is identified in the town’s joint Neighbourhood Plan as a key site for regeneration, which highlights the importance of revitalising the area to help shape the future of the town and deliver a lasting community benefit.
Pictured: Works begin
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