Wiltshire Council grants Asset of Community Value status to Lydiard Country Park
Historic park gains protection amid development concerns
Wiltshire Council has approved Lydiard Country Park's designation as an Asset of Community Value, offering protection against potential future development.
The application, presented by Lydiard Tregoze Parish Council, covers parts of the historic house and gardens located in Wiltshire, while the sections falling within Swindon have held this status since 2015.
Situated on the western edge of Swindon, Lydiard Country Park attracts up to 800,000 visitors annually.
The site, formerly part of Viscount Bolingbroke's estate, is recognised on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens under the Historic Buildings and Ancient Monuments Act 1953.
Citing the park's significant community value, the parish council described its role in providing accessible outdoor spaces for activities like walking, birdwatching, and informal recreation.
The park also contributes to developing a community sense of place and identity across generations.
The new listing grants local community groups additional rights should Swindon Borough Council, which owns and manages the property, ever decide to dispose of it.
Beyond this status, the Grade I Listed building and park already enjoy substantial protection against potential developments.
Wiltshire Council planners highlighted that the area's principal use enhances community wellbeing and social interests, which would suffer without the park.
Lydiard Country Park will remain on the council's register until August 2031, preserving its community value and safeguarding against detrimental urban extensions.