Plans to convert empty listed buildings at the former Wadworth brewery site in Devizes have been given the green light.
Wiltshire Council has approved proposals to redevelop the former Victorian brewery, White Lion pub and grade-II listed buildings into 22 new homes and commercial space, and a new two-storey mixed-use building with car parking.
The plans were submitted by architecture firm Nash Partnership on behalf of property developer Trevor Osborne.
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The homes will include one-, two- and three-bed flats, while the former White Lion pub will be turned into a single four-bed house. There will also be a new-build apartment over commercial space in the centre.
The plans include a strategy to retain, reclaim or relocate specific artefacts from the main brewery building, such as copper vessels, tanks, engines, machines and brewery equipment, according to Nash. Some will be relocated to the new micro-brewery while others will be reclaimed for use in the internal designs.
The development will also open up parts of the site that are currently closed to the public, creating a new ‘brewery courtyard’ that pedestrians can walk through to the canal.
Nash Partnership’s partner Robert Locke said: “This complex but fascinating project has presented many opportunities as well as challenges.
"With a strong vision for this part of the site, our client can now go ahead with the conversion of these important historic assets. With the planning and listed building consent now secured, we’re looking forward to continuing to play a part in this exciting new chapter of the town’s history.”
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Separate proposals by local developer Backhouse to create new homes and commercial space on the northern section of the site were approved earlier this year.
Meanwhile, the derelict grade-II listed Assize Court on the west of the brewery site will become a new home for Wiltshire Museum.
Queen Victoria was on the throne when Wadworth opened the Northgate Brewery in Devizes. Henry Wadworth founded the business with his brother-in-law John Smith Bartholomew.
The brewery site operated for 135 years before it became vacant in 2023 when the 6X maker relocated to a new facility on Folly Road. The brewery has previously said it supports the redevelopment of its former home.