‘Assizes for Devizes’ aims to create a cultural and community destination at the heart of Wiltshire, supporting tourism and the regeneration of the local area. Essential conservation works to the Assize Court will enable the revitalisation of the building. In March 2024 our appointed architects Purcell drafted plans for the ground and first floor of the Assize Court building, as well as the outdoor space. These exciting new plans include inspiring and interactive galleries, indoor and outdoor learning, community and event spaces, and a café and gift shop. Wheelchair ramps, lifts and disabled toilets will make the museum an accessible space for all visitors.
During the two-year development phase we will be working with community groups across Wiltshire to ensure that the needs of our community remain at the heart of our plans for the future. We want to find out what they'd like to see at the new museum as well as run fun, creative projects that explore the story of Wiltshire and Devizes. There will be plenty of chances to add your thoughts to the project with surveys, advisory and focus groups, open days and a touring ‘Ideas Station’ exhibition.
These ideas will be developed with Purcell, along with adjoining owners, Wiltshire Council and Devizes Town Council and our supportive team of heritage and industry professionals.
We want you to be a part of the Devizes Assize Court’s story! Click here to find out more about the project: https://devizesassizecourt.org.uk/plans-for-the-future
The Wiltshire Museum has been engaging visitors since 1874 in its current buildings on Long Street, Devizes and is home to Designated collections, including stunning treasures from the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site landscape.
The Devizes Assize Court was built in 1835 and has been derelict since the 1980s. It has been on Historic England ‘Heritage At Risk register’ since the scheme’s inception in 1988.
A key part of the work over the next two years will be to raise the significant additional funding required to complete the project through applications to trusts and foundations and in securing philanthropic support.
Martin Nye, Chair of Wiltshire Museum, said “We are delighted that the Heritage Fund have supported our project to restore this wonderful building and give a home that is fit for purpose for the award-winning Wiltshire Museum. We are all excited by the opportunity to connect the Assize Court building to the rest of Devizes, and to create a vibrant destination for the very wide range of visitors who come from far and wide to see our marvellous collections.”
Peter Troughton, Chair of the Devizes Assize Court Trust, said “This fantastic news is a vital and hugely encouraging step on the long journey to giving a new life to this important building. The financial help that the project has received to date has been invaluable, enabling us to get to where we are today. Our thanks to Historic England, Devizes Town Council, a number of charitable trusts and individuals who have made this possible.”
Stuart McLeod, Director of England - London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said “We believe that investing in heritage means investing in the community it belongs to. It has the power to make our communities better places to live, bring a sense of pride and boost the local economy. We’re pleased to support Wilshire Museum with their Assizes for Devizes project. It will not only see a Grade II* listed building brought back to life but also create a space for the community and a new home for the Wiltshire Museum. We look forward to working with the team to progress their plans to apply for a full grant at a later date.”
