Historic Manor House Set to Reopen After £1.8 Million Refurbishment

A historic structure, having completed a £1.8 million renovation, is scheduled to reopen as both a council office and a community hub. The Manor House, located in Royal Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire, was acquired by the town council in a “rundown” state as part of a “major project.” This location previously served as premises for a district council, social services, and subsequently functioned as a magistrates’ court. Council members expressed their anticipation that the refurbished building will facilitate the “provision of the highest quality services for the community.” The council divested its former offices at the Civic Centre on Station Road, aiming to acquire a location offering greater capacity. Before this relocation, the local authority reported frequent inquiries from various groups seeking a venue for gatherings. Proposals to transform the Manor House into a versatile space, incorporating meeting rooms, an exhibition venue, office areas, and a CCTV suite, received approval in February 2023. To fund the undertaking, the council obtained a £1 million loan from the Public Works Loan Board.