Contractors have started to clear a Trowbridge ‘eyesore’ that once provided shelter for homeless people.

Workers were seen clearing bedding and other materials left in the doorway of the former Lounge Café Bar in Roundstone Street.

They also inspected a door damaged by a recent attempted break-in.

Wiltshire Times: Site worker Josh inspects the damaged door. Image: Trevor Porter 77005-5Site worker Josh inspects the damaged door. Image: Trevor Porter 77005-5 (Image: Trevor Porter)

Kez Garner, chairwoman of Trowbridge Chamber of Commerce, said they were looking forward to the vacant premises being used.

“We’re wanting that to happen to all the empty premises in Trowbridge.”

For many months, rough sleepers used the doorway of The Lounge to gain some shelter from the wind and rain.

But they were asked to leave by police earlier this year following several incidents of antisocial behaviour that upset passers-by and local businesses.

They left behind mattresses, bedding, empty beer kegs and other rubbish when they went.

Wiltshire Times: The items of bedding left by rough sleepers camping in The Lounge doorway. Image: Trevor Porter77005-2The items of bedding left by rough sleepers camping in The Lounge doorway. Image: Trevor Porter77005-2 (Image: Trevor Porter)

The contractors are understood to be renovating and redeveloping the premises on behalf of a new tenant who is leasing the building.

News that it could soon be occupied and used will be welcomed by nearby retail shops, takeaway cafes and professional businesses.

The premises have long been an eyesore and the presence of homeless people using drink and drugs led to many people avoiding that part of the town.