A planning application to transform a historic Wiltshire building left derelict for decades is expected soon despite being delayed.

In August Wiltshire Museum revealed it intended to submit a planning application to turn the Grade II listed Devizes Assize Court into its new home by the end of the month.

The prominent building on Northgate Street has been empty since the 1980s and has fallen into decay, with the site featuring on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register due to its deteriorating condition.

Wiltshire Museum has been working with the Devizes Assize Court Trust (DACT) to draw up plans for its future and the project’s architect Purcell has been developing the designs.

But these plans are yet to reach the council at the time of writing, nearly two months after they were due to be lodged.

Museum director, David Dawson revealed this brief delay was down to some minor technical details of the proposal, but emphasised an application would be submitted soon.

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Plans for the Devizes Assize CourtPlans for the Devizes Assize Court (Image: Wiltshire Museum) He added: “We were told by the architects they were ready to submit the application, and we had two weeks to review documents before they put them in.

“It still hasn’t gone in yet, it’s not far off and it will be soon but not yet, I’m just waiting because we want to get it in.

“It’s nothing beyond the fact that we’re just waiting for the final designs on some bits of the plans, there is some technical stuff but it’s nothing significant.”

The scheme to turn the Assize Cout into a museum has been progressing for years and the planning application will represent a major step towards making it a reality.

The plans are expected to include two designated learning and event spaces, new galleries, a special display space capable of hosting national-standard exhibitions, and a cafe that makes use of the new open space behind the building.

Inside Devizes Assize CourtInside Devizes Assize Court (Image: Wiltshire Museum) Speaking in August, DACT chair Peter Troughton said: “We are delighted to have reached this important milestone in our project to restore the Devizes Assize Court and bring it back for the people of Devizes for community use.

“The Trust is very grateful for the support we have had so far.

“There is still a long road ahead of us, but to see our vision of a revitalised building one step closer to fruition is fantastic.”

A funding application will be made to The National Lottery Heritage Fund in 2025 and, if successful, it is hoped work will begin during 2026, ahead of opening in 2030.