Long-awaited work to transform Westbury’s rotunda is now due to begin in September.
The project, originally scheduled to start in April, was stalled due to a lengthy wait for Wiltshire Council to approve a road closure notice for Edward Street, allowing building vehicles access to the rotunda site.
The redesign will retain the rotunda’s footprint, adding a granite oval seating area, a timber-topped bench, and a paved section to improve pedestrian access. Part of the plant bed will be turned into a rain garden with new planting around the existing tree, helping to reduce flooding and attract wildlife.
The road closure application has now been approved by Wiltshire Council – much to the delight of town councillors.
Work will begin in September, and it is hoped the refurbished rotunda can be used for future town events such as Sunday Brunches.
Mark Bailey, deputy mayor and chair of the Vision for Westbury committee, said, “Finally, the rotunda work is due to begin in September. It’s very exciting and will open up the High Street and give everyone a much nicer view of Soisy Gardens.
“This shows the Town Council is really moving forward to promote the High Street and is a real indication of our intention.”
The project forms part of a broader strategy to rejuvenate the town centre, known as Vision for Westbury.
Town Mayor Jane Russ said, “I can’t tell you how thrilled I am [that the road closure has been approved]. I have been on the Town Council for eight years, and six of those have been working with Vision for Westbury on plans to regenerate the town centre.
“I would echo what Mark said – this rotunda project really shows our clear intent as the Town Council.”
Deborah Urch, Town Clerk in Westbury, added in an update, “Although we have a provisional start date in place, and road closures have been scheduled, there are still a few final details being worked through behind the scenes.
“This is a really positive step for Westbury, and I know how much the community is looking forward to seeing the space transformed. Thank you for your patience and continued support as we bring this long-anticipated project to life.”
Pictured: Westbury Town Mayor Jane Russ and Deputy Mayor Mark Bailey
