Gutted kebab house will be demolished in April
The shop was left ruined by the blaze in November 2024
A fire-ravaged kebab house in Devizes will be demolished in April, it has been confirmed.
The Grade II listed building was gutted in a blaze in November 2024, and the road outside closed to traffic because officials feared it would collapse.
Temporary shoring was put in place on the road to ensure the burnt-out building does not pose a safety risk to the public.
But Northgate Street has not been able to fully reopen to traffic because of the shoring – with a one-way system in place.
Traders in the town’s Market Place are angry because Northgate Street is one of three entrances to the town centre.
And more generally, residents are annoyed that the “eyesore” has not been demolished.
Now, it has been confirmed that Northgate Street will be closed between Tuesday, April 7 and Friday, April 24 for demolition to take place.
Cllr Ian Thorn, leader of Wiltshire Council, exclusively told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “We are pleased that the works to demolish the former kebab house on Northgate Street in Devizes are due to begin on 7 April.
“This marks an important step forward, and we thank residents and businesses for bearing with us throughout what has been a very complex situation, particularly as the delays were outside of the council’s control.
“The previous road closure was lifted as soon as it was safe to do so. However, to ensure public safety during the demolition phase, temporary traffic management will be in place. This will allow the works to proceed safely while keeping the road as open as possible.
He continued: “Because the issues relate to a privately owned, Grade II-listed building, the council’s powers have been limited. Our priority throughout has been to keep people safe while keeping the road as open as possible within the constraints of the structural risks.
“We will continue working closely with the owner to support the safe completion of the demolition. We appreciate the continued patience shown by local businesses and the community.”
Following the blaze, the people of Devizes rallied round to support the owners, who lost their home and their business. A GoFundMe appeal raised £7,000 in just 48 hours.
Shortly after the incident, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said it believed the fire had started accidentally, although it warned the exact cause might never be established because of the extent of the damage caused.