MELKSHAM Campus plans were the main topic of discussion at a packed area board last night as members of the community heard were updated about the exciting project.

Around 140 people were there to see Councillor Jon Hubbard elected chairman of a new Melksham Campus project board.

The board will now oversee the development of the campus and Coun Hubbard thanked the Melksham Community Operations Board (COB) for its work and confirmed it will still play an important role in the project.

People also heard an update on the progress of the Woolmore Farm part of the project, with construction now well underway to improve rugby and football facilities for the town’s clubs.

It was also confirmed that discussions have taken place with Melksham Town Council about the possibility of integrating the Melksham Assembly Hall into the project.

An interactive workshop took place with people asked for their opinions on the options for redeveloping the Market Place, what they would like to see in any redeveloped Assembly Hall and whether any local council-owned land should be sold to help fund the campus.

Melksham Area Board chairman Jonathon Seed said: “We had a tremendous turnout at the meeting and that demonstrates to me just how passionate local people are about the campus.

“This is a really groundbreaking and unique project as both local political opponents and different elements of local government are working closely together to help deliver a truly special campus.

"I’d like to thank Councillor Jon Hubbard for chairing the new campus group and I look forward to continuing this really positive working relationship.

"I must also pay tribute to, and thank, Councillor Roy While and the COB for their years of hard work and I’m pleased we will continue to work with them as the project continues.

“We have lots of work ahead of us but we’re determined to provide a campus the community and local area can be proud of, now and for future generations.”

Local community grants were also awarded out to a number of Melksham area projects and members of the council’s public health team spoke to attendees about the impact of child poverty and what work is being done to eradicate it.

The next area board takes place on November 18 at Seend Community Centre from 7pm.