New public areas could be built beside the River Biss in Trowbridge to “improve people’s enjoyment of the area” and the town’s “connection to the river.”

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust has submitted planning applications which propose work to the small park beside the Town Bridge, on the western bank of the River Biss, as well as at the Stone Mill site, just south of the footbridge at The Shires Centre.

The Town Bridge area is described as “underutilised” and “in need of refurbishment.”

The plans suggest resurfacing work and the installation of new seating areas in an “amphitheatre” format, along with new trees and wildflower planting.

According to the application, the Stone Mill site proposals include resurfacing works and the installation of a new decked viewing area.

If approved, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust would be carrying out the work in partnership with Wiltshire Council as part of the wider River Biss Corridor Improvements project.

The plans noted that the proposals comprise a “high-quality development that will greatly improve the appearance, useability and environmental benefit of the public realm, whilst also providing much more usable, enjoyable space for the local community.”

The decision deadline for these applications is Monday, June 10, 2024.