THE DIRECTOR of Wiltshire Museum in Devizes is hopeful that the Assize Court building may be its new prominent home.

Wiltshire Museum is currently based in Long Street.

But David Dawson has expressed his enthusiasm for moving it into the Grade II listed, Assize Court building in Northgate Street.

At the meeting of Devizes Area Board on Monday yesterday it was mentioned that there were plans to stop the deterioration of the iconic building. 

Mr Dawson said: “We have been looking at Assize Courts for a few months now. We have got a group together and we are able to look at the idea of using the Assize Court space.

"The added perks of having Assize Court would be the extra space, and it would also be part of the restorative project by Wiltshire Council. It is a landmark building and I think with it we could promote ourselves, in turn making us a landmark.

“We are holding our AGM for our members where we will talk about the idea and then maybe make it more public as the process continues.

"It would take a lot of funding and a lot of work."

Wiltshire Council was quick to stress this week that no decision has been made on the future of either the museum or the Assize Courts, saying that the intention now is for the council to look at proposals in more detail and establish what options are viable, before holding a public consultation to get people’s feedback on any plans.

Leader of Wiltshire Council, Baroness Scott said: “This area has fantastic potential and we’re keen to look at all the options available to make the most of it.

“I must stress that Nothing has been confirmed yet, but we will work closely with local partners and the land owners and look to develop proposals that we feel will enhance the local area and are sustainable long into the future.”

The museum's AGM will be taking place for members only on October 15 in Devizes Town Hall at 2.30pm.