Plans submitted for new homes on Wadworth Brewery site in Devizes

The plans to regenerate the historic Northgate Street site were revealed last year and have now taken a step closer to fruition after they were submitted to Wiltshire Council.

If successful, developers Backhouse plan to build 102 new homes, as well as public open spaces, pedestrian links, and both commercial and community facilities.

The Grade II listed brewery tower will remain unaffected.

Backhouse plan to integrate the iconic tower, and other landmarks from the site, into the development to reinforce the town’s local identity and preserve key views.

Stuart Walter, senior land and planning manager at Backhouse, said: “We are excited to announce the submission of our planning application for the redevelopment of this historic site and welcome people to view the latest plans which are registered online.

“It is our ambition to create an exemplar mixed use development and build much needed homes for local people on this site.”

“Being a local housebuilder, we are truly inspired by the opportunity to work closely with Wadworth to design a standout new neighbourhood for Devizes and in doing, build a strong legacy for Wadworth Brewery and the local community.”

The latest update on the regeneration of the Northgate Street brewery comes as Wadworth prepare to move into their new state of the art complex on Folly Road.

The brewers have constructed the multi million pound facility after 147 years of brewing in the town centre, but managing director Toby Bartholomew is confident their old home is in good hands.

He added: “This is a very momentous time for Wadworth with the new brewery build in its final stage and the exciting plan Backhouse has developed for our current site.

“We have been consulted on the scheme and will continue to review throughout the planning process to ensure the development respects the history of the site for the local community.”

Some concerns have previously been raised over the development’s impact on issues such as traffic, but Backhouse say they received positive feedback from locals during a public exhibition and consultation.

The development will boast environmental features such as air source heat pumps and electric vehicle chargers.

Architect David Anderson hopes the scheme will spark future proposals for adjoining sites, creating “a string of pearls” connecting the town’s key cultural assets.

The application is due to be registered shortly and the council are expected to issue a decision later this year.