Metal railings put up around the Corsham Mansion House are angering residents and businesses.

The new barriers mean shoppers can no longer park for free at the former library.

As a result, nearby businesses say they are experiencing a downturn in trade.

Shop owner Dawn Prewett works opposite, at Oakley Spar, and has heard a number of customers complaining about them.

“It’s an eyesore and unnecessary,” she said. “This monstrous hoarding should be removed until work does start on developing these two sites.

“People have been parking there forever. Most people can’t understand why it’s there and it is petty if it has been put up to stop people parking.”

Ms Prewett added: “Someone [at the council] obviously thinks that they are losing some revenue from the nearby car park, but the only losers are the few remaining and fast dwindling local businesses; people who are struggling to survive in today’s climate.”

The Grade II listed, Wiltshire Council-owned building in Pickwick Road was put up for sale in 2011. There were bids from developers, but also U-turns, which led to offers being withdrawn.

Wiltshire Council has said the railings are to secure the site while it considers whether to keep or sell it. In the meantime, it is responsible for maintenance.

The owners of the Martingate Centre, Bill and Andrew Hall, are keen to see a positive resolution soon and have told the council their offer to buy and fully refurbish the building still stands.

Mr Hall said: “Mansion House is an extremely important building for the town and we want a guarantee that it is given the future it deserves.

“Our main aim has always been to ensure that the property is renovated and refurbished as soon as possible, to prevent further deterioration and to secure its long-term future.”