Work is now underway by Wiltshire Council to demolish its old Melksham library building so the site can be developed for affordable housing for older people.

 The building on Lowbourne Road has been empty since the library became part of Melksham Community Campus in the summer of 2022 and has allegedly been targeted by vandals.

In addition, two other buildings on the site – one adjacent previously used as a Chinese restaurant and a former education centre will also be taken down.

Subject to planning permission, the site will be developed as affordable independent living apartments for older people, with the council looking to secure a build partner for the project by the end of the year.

Cllr Tamara Reay, Wiltshire Council's cabinet member for assets, said: “This site, located in the heart of the town, has huge potential so we’re pleased to start the process on the ground to bring it back into use.

“Unfortunately, the site has been a target for anti-social behaviour so the demolition work should help mitigate this too.

“Following projects such as the hugely popular Melksham Community Campus, this means more Wiltshire Council investment into Melksham.

“Transforming the site into one for affordable housing at an accessible location will benefit local older residents and we’ll keep people updated as this project gathers pace.”

Since lying vacant, and despite the council working with a security company to manage the situation, the site had become a target for anti-social activity, so the demolition should also help prevent this from continuing, the council said.

Work to clear the site is expected to last around eight weeks.

Lowbourne car park and Lowbourne House will both remain operational and in use throughout the work.