Plans for Chippenham music venue at disused garage

Acting on behalf of The Four Horsemen Ltd, Chippenham based architect firm Artel31 has lodged a planning application to redevelop the vacant property at 7 Union Road.

The company, which is based in the redeveloped neighbouring unit above Cousin Norman’s cafe and bar, plans to bring the site into use as a community event space for Chippenham residents.

This would include adding a recording studio and performing arts practice space with associated amenities, and a small bar.

The large proposed hall space could also have a variety of community uses.

Artel31 says the development would be a “unique opportunity” to add to the town’s music scene.

READ MORE: Plans for new music venue in Chippenham launched at event

Inside the unit last year (Image: Rag and Bone Arts)

In its design statement, a spokesperson said: “We would envision this space being used for local arts markets, performances, workshops, events and exhibitions alongside music and drama practice.

“This is a unique opportunity for Chippenham and would bring a great benefit to the local area and music scene.”

The wider site has already been redeveloped through the renovation of the neighbouring unit, and the addition of external seating areas for the cafe, planting and paths, and an adjacent community cafe in a container.

Artel31 says these changes have “significantly enhanced” the area.

Local arts groups including Rag and Bone and Riverside CIC have expressed interest in making use of the proposed venue.

Last October a campaign was launched to help fund the conversion with Rag and Bone Arts hoping to raise the money to rent the venue from Artel31, which is co-funding the project.

At the time, director Laura Graham-May said the community interest company hoped to secure a ten-year lease on the venue.

A sketch of the plans for the venue from last year (Image: Rag and Bone Arts)

She added: “We’d like it to be an event, performance and gig space, it would be purpose-built and multi-purpose.

“It’s going to change things completely, the area where we want to do it is already a really exciting and vibrant place to be in.

“This space could make a huge difference and everybody would benefit from it being there because you could go to performances you would normally have to travel to Bath or Bristol for.

“It will bring people to the area and benefit the whole community, Chippenham has got lots going on but this is a focal point for arts and culture which is slightly lacking.”