The historic Grade II listed Devizes Assize Court is set to be restored to its former grandeur as the new home of the Wiltshire Museum, after planning approval from Wiltshire Council. The museum, known for its nationally significant collections including Neolithic and Bronze Age artefacts from Stonehenge and Avebury, will move from its current premises to the iconic building.
This ambitious restoration project will introduce modern facilities such as a café, dedicated learning space, multi-purpose event areas, accessible gardens, and new galleries—features the museum’s existing site cannot accommodate. Importantly, the 19th-century courthouse, built in 1835 and derelict since the 1980s, will be made fully accessible with lifts and adapted toilets to welcome all visitors.
Caroline Kay, chairwoman of Wiltshire Museum, expressed gratitude for the council’s approval, calling it a vital milestone toward realizing the vision for the people of Devizes, Wiltshire, and beyond. The museum and the Devizes Assize Court Trust have collaborated on the project titled “Assizes for Devizes: Unlocking Wiltshire’s Stories,” which received initial £300,000 funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund in June 2023.
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Following a Development Phase supported by National Lottery funding, the project team—including architect Purcell Architecture—is now preparing a delivery phase application. The plan harmonizes conservation with sustainable new-build elements to create a welcoming, inclusive space that reimagines how Wiltshire’s internationally important collections are displayed.
Clare Phillips, conservation associate at Purcell, highlighted the collaborative effort with community groups to revive the dilapidated Assize Court into a vibrant cultural hub. With planning consent secured, the organization can now pursue further funding from trusts, foundations, and philanthropists. Over £1 million has already been raised.
If subsequent funding applications are successful, restoration work will begin in 2026 with the goal of reopening by 2030. Peter Troughton, chairman of the Devizes Assize Court Trust, praised Wiltshire Council’s support, emphasizing the benefits this revival will bring to Devizes and the entire county.
In addition, Wiltshire Council has contributed £350,000 from Community Infrastructure Levy funds, recognizing the project’s potential to boost economic development and cultural tourism. Cabinet member Helen Belcher celebrated the initiative as a unique opportunity to celebrate Wiltshire’s rich history while attracting visitors to the town.
Once a landmark courthouse and now a heritage-at-risk structure listed by Historic England since 1988, the Devizes Assize Court will soon have new life breathed into its walls, securing its place at the heart of Wiltshire’s cultural future.