A PIECE of Chippenham's architectural history will enjoy a new lease of life as a much-needed arts venue after years buried in coal dust.

The Grade II-listed Weighbridge, near Chippenham Railway Station, has been taken over by North Wiltshire Artspace a non-profit making company set up by four men who wanted to save the building from decline.

It was used as a coal merchants, but has stood empty for more than two years.

Now cleaned of coal dust, with a new roof and plenty of fresh paint, the Weighbridge is ready for its new role as an arts workspace and exhibition venue.

The facility was officially opened by the Mayoress of Chippenham, Coun Karin Meek, at a ceremony on Tuesday. She said she was delighted that one of the town's historic buildings was being used to support the arts.

"It is wonderful to give it a new lease of life," she said. "If it is promoted well, it will be great."

The Weighbridge, a two-storey stone and timber building was built about 150 years ago.

Project manager Geoff Endacott contacted owners Railtrack 18 months ago and expressed an interest in taking it on with three friends, John Turner, Chris White and Martin Axford.

The Weighbridge has an upstairs office that will be used by Chippenham Arts Festival and a small ground floor office, in need of an occupier.

It has a meeting room, a work space, and an upstairs gallery for exhibitions.

Now Mr Endacott and his colleagues want to hear from groups keen to use the artspace. Call (01249) 657283.