Work has been approved for the demolition and relocation of the physiotherapy department at Chippenham Community Hospital.

The planning application was submitted for consideration in November 2023, and has now been given the go ahead by Wiltshire Council. 

According to the application, the lightweight timber frame building has become dilapidated and is “beyond its serviceable lifecycle.”

Its demolition will result in the relocation of the department, which itself will require work on other areas and buildings in the hospital grounds.

This work will include roof replacements, remodelling and refurbishment of the Wessex Suite, physiotherapy treatment room adaptations, and boiler replacements.

The application notes: “The internal decoration within the proposed physiotherapy area is tired and needs to be renewed, using finishes appropriate for the surfaces and use.

“Damp remediation works are also required in this area to make the building suitable for use.”

The proposal was considered for approximately two months and the applicant was informed of its approval on Tuesday, January 9. 

The case officer report found that the plans were of an "acceptable overall scale" and would result in "limited implications" for the character of the site.

According to the application, the new physiotherapy department will provide seven treatment rooms for outpatient physiotherapy services to replace those lost in the planned demolition.