Plans to bring historic building “back to life” revealed
It will mean the regeneration of a 160-year-old former lecture hall
Plans to bring a historic building in the heart of Marlborough’s conservation area “back to life” have been revealed.
Proposals given the go-ahead to urban regeneration firm Roberts & Treguer by Wiltshire Council will see the 160-year-old former lecture hall in The Parade renovated and converted.
The building was constructed for the adjacent non-conformist chapel, which was opened in 1817 and is now a cinema.
Bearing an 1867 date plaque, the former lecture hall has, until recently, been used by interiors firm Dible & Roy for storing carpets. The firm has now moved to new premises on the outskirts of the town.
The applicant has won permission to change the use of the building from storage to commercial, business and service. This could mean a change of use to retail, offices, a restaurant or café, or a clinic or health centre.
Renovation works will include the installation of new timber-framed windows and entrance doors, repairing and repainting the existing windows, and installing conservation rooflights.
Inside, a new mezzanine level will be created, replacing the current staircase and upper floor arrangement.
“This will secure a viable long-term use, ensure its continued occupation, and safeguard its heritage value through sensitive adaptation,” said Gareth Roberts of Roberts & Treguer in a planning application, which was granted this week.
“By combining careful restoration with modest, high-quality interventions, the scheme preserves the building’s architectural character while adapting it for a sustainable and beneficial new use… restoring this building and bringing it back to life.”