The long-awaited project to remodel and refurbish the rotunda seating area at the head of the High Street has begun.
The works started on 1st September and are expected to last 15 weeks. The project is the first in a series of improvements aimed at regenerating Westbury town centre, under the scheme called A Vision for Westbury.
The works include the removal of most of the existing brick walls above ground, to preserve footings for the new stonework to be installed in its place. A lowering of levels should allow for greater access into the space and for views to be opened up both towards Soisy Gardens and from the library area towards the High Street.
A combination of granite and wood is proposed to take the place of the deteriorated brickwork giving a contemporary and fresh feel. The existing soft landscape is to be reduced and converted into a rain garden, capturing water from the High Street and retrofitted around the existing tree. The granite oval, a portion of which is to be timber-topped, will provide seating for visitors.
A plant bed will be removed to create a paved section to improve pedestrian access with a new walkway that wraps around the east side leading directly towards the library.
“The existing structure is seen by many as tired and unwelcoming, creating a barrier at the end of the high street,” said Westbury Town Council.
“The redevelopment will open the views to Soisy Gardens and extend the visual flow towards Maristow Street and the Market Place. The works will also provide a new public space for the many events held in the town centre such as Chilli Fest, the Sunday Brunch Markets and Remembrance Day and support wider use of the High Street for community activities.”
Cllr Mark Bailey, Chair of the council’s Vision Committee which is overseeing the project said, “The Rotunda redevelopment is a vote of confidence in the town centre and the first stage in plans for a larger regeneration project, further demonstrating the town council’s commitment to invest in the future of Westbury.
“Following from public consultations the new design will enhance the High Street for residents and visitors and so help to support local businesses and community events.”
A road closure will be in place just outside of the library preventing traffic turning left at the end of the high street. This will last for the duration of the works which is scheduled to take 15 weeks.
The project is mainly funded by grants and the CIL funding – provided by housing developers for community infrastructure projects – and so the cost will not fall on the precept or local council taxpayers.
Works are expected to be completed by mid-December 2025.
