Work to begin on transformation of Devizes Assize Court

Initial enabling works at the Grade II* listed building could start as early as this month, marking a major step forward for the long-awaited project.

Wiltshire Museum director David Dawson confirmed that work may start later this month, saying: “I am currently looking at the tender award documents, but they have not yet been signed by us or the contractor.”

The former Assize Court will eventually be transformed into a new museum with galleries, temporary exhibition space, learning and community facilities, event space, a café and improved accessibility.

The project recently received a major boost after the National Lottery Heritage Fund awarded £8.5 million towards the cost of the scheme.

The museum is also continuing to raise funds towards the remaining cost of the project.

Planning permission and listed building consent were approved in August 2025, enabling full restoration and museum relocation.

A new planning application submitted in August 2026, seeks relatively minor design and material amendments to the approved scheme, including changes to the extensions, plant enclosure, café layout and ventilation.

The consultation closes on Thursday, October 8, according to the latest planning information.

According to the latest project timetable, enabling works are expected to take around eight weeks, with the main construction and restoration work due to begin in 2027.

The new museum is currently expected to open in 2030.

The Assize Court, which dates from the 19th century, is an important part of Devizes’ heritage and has stood largely unused for many years.

The restoration will bring the building back into public use while retaining its historic character.

For Wiltshire Museum, which currently operates from its premises in Long Street, the Assize Court project will provide additional exhibition, learning and community facilities while forming a major new visitor attraction for the town.

The £14.8 million project is being supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund alongside other funding and fundraising.

With enabling works now due to begin, the project is moving from years of planning and fundraising towards the physical transformation of one of Devizes’ most important historic buildings.

The completed building is intended to provide a modern museum while allowing visitors to explore the county’s history in a landmark historic setting.

The project is also intended to provide a significant boost to the wider regeneration of the area around the former Wadworth Brewery and Devizes Wharf.

Planning permission for the former Wadworth Brewery site has been granted for a separate scheme involving 102 homes, retail space, open areas and improved pedestrian, cycle and vehicle links.

Preparatory work and demolition have already taken place at parts of the former brewery site, while a number of planning conditions are continuing to be dealt with.

The historic brewery buildings are also subject to a separate scheme involving their conversion and restoration, with residential and commercial uses planned.

Together, the projects represent a significant change for an important part of Devizes, which has been identified for wider regeneration.