AFTER years of growing concern about its state of decay the Assize Court in Devizes has now been designated as making good progress by Historic England.

The group which monitors listed buildings has issued a report which highlights the historic sites most at risk.

But it is hoped the Assize Court is now out of danger. The report says: “Following years of decay, a bright future now beckons for the iconic Assize Court building.

“Thanks to support from the Wiltshire Historic Buildings Trust, Wiltshire Council, Historic England and a generous local benefactor, the newly-formed Devizes Assize Court Trust has now acquired the building, taking a major step towards its rescue.”

The plan is for it to become the new home of Wiltshire Museum.

Also making good progress is the Market Cross at Castle Combe. The report says: “It is currently being repaired. The parish council has tapped into local enthusiasm and garnered support for repairs which got under way this summer.”