WOOTTON Bassett Town Hall is about to have a facelift which means it will be turned grey.

But residents have been reassured the 17th century building will be returned to its familiar mock Tudor look after the essential lime washing, which alters the colour of the walls.

Last time similar restoration work was carried out locals were in uproar and fought for the building to be painted white with the wooden beams stained a dark colour. The town hall is set to undergo a programme of repairs, with works starting in late April or early May.

The town council has invited a number of specialist companies to bid to carry out the repairs, which will cost between £12,500 and £15,000, part of which will come from North Wiltshire District Council.

The extensive schedule of work includes everything from repairs to the roof and windows to lime washing, staining the antique timbering and redecorating all the plaster infill panels.

Wootton Bassett town clerk Johnathan Bourne said: "Part of the works will be lime washing the timber which to conserve, is the appropriate treatment. But rest assured once this has been completed the town hall will be restored to its usual exterior."