Plans for new bar in Chippenham could 'regenerate' area

A planning application has been lodged to change the use of the former Waverley Cafe in Chippenham Market Place, most recently in use as the Royal Ashoka Restaurant, into a bar.

The property has been taken over by the owners of the Prince of Wales Micropub, based on Station Hill, who plan to convert it into a second venue.

Since the application was submitted to Wiltshire Council, dozens of residents have commented to voice their support for the new venture.

Chippenham Town Council’s planning committee also voted to signify their support for the proposal.

It is hoped that the opening of a new bar will help reinvigorate the area.

A spokesperson said: “The town council welcomes and supports the proposed expansion into a vacant commercial premises by a local, independent business.

“This investment would help to regenerate the upper Market Place and bring a listed building back into use.”

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Matthew Short praised the plans for finding a new use for an empty unit.

He added: “I’ve got absolutely no objection, it’s great because it’s (the building) going to be brought back into use and in a good way, so it’s fantastic.”

Cllr David Poole believes the new business would draw residents to the upper Market Place.

He said: “It’s nice to see an independent actually coming on board and making use of a prominent site in the town.

“When you look at that part of Chippenham we’ve basically tidied up the Market Place and stopped illegal parking there to encourage people to use that.

“That part of town needs some strong support and to have an actual independent going in there rather than a large chain is great.”

The current Prince of Wales Micropub (Image: Google Maps)

Many residents and customers of the current Princes of Wales Micropub have also spoken about the benefits a new venue would bring.

Ian Murden said: “This is brilliant for Chippenham Town centre.

“Nice to see a business doing well and wanting to utilise one of the many empty buildings in town.”

Mark Blackwell added: “It will be great to have another independent business in town.

“We enjoy visiting the Prince of Wales and would welcome a similarly run establishment at the opposite end of town.”

If planning permission is granted, it is hoped the new bar will open this summer.