The town council in Devizes have recently announced plans to overhaul a historic building that houses one of Wiltshire’s busiest indoor markets with a budget of £1 million - but is the market really in need of it? I paid it a visit to investigate. 

As reported by the Gazette, the council has been working with PKA Architects for some time to develop proposals for a renovation of the Shambles building.

Several steps have been proposed as part of the planned works including to increase energy efficiency for the whole building through improved ventilation, air extraction, heating, and lighting is a key part of the design.

There are also plans to fit the lower hall out so it may be used as a community space, upgrade the toilet facilities, and improve the services in the lower hall to provide greater access to water, drainage, and power. 

What the plans would look like. (Image: Devizes Town Council/PKA Architects) The initial designs also propose a revamp of the entrance by creating a lobby area with automatic doors, and mezzanine space to provide room for a cafe which would be accessed by an open staircase.

After talking to traders and those who visit the market regularly I was soon told that Thursday is always a busy market day, so I headed there myself on Thursday, September 19 to learn more about the market.

I was only there for a few minutes and it was already clear to see how much the market means to both residents and those who trade there. I was blown away by how friendly everyone was and how willing traders are to speak about their love for the place.

As many traders told me "it's like a family" with every trader knowing and supporting each other - something that made it feel very unique. 

As one trader told me, the space is their livelihood and is very loved. As you walk along the historic stone flooring you are met with traders selling all sorts of items from their own photography, clothes, candles, food and lots more.

It is unlike anything I have seen before.

I was surprised because in just the time I spent there it got really busy as shoppers came to browse, proving people enjoy visiting, whether for the first time or as regular customer.

Nearly every trader I spoke to said they had regular customers who keep coming back simply because they love to come.

Inside the indoor market (Image: Trevor Porter) I have to admit it is clear from first glance that the market is definitely in need of some love, the walls some new paint and better heating other than the tiny heaters on the wall, which to me didn't look like they would be enough to keep anyone warm.

The idea of replacing the tired looking doors either end seems to be welcomed by traders who say winter is often freezing with the current doors not doing much in the way of keeping them warm - something I couldn't agree with more.

Some of the current doors (Image: Trevor Porter) The market really is what you think of when you think of a traditional market and it was clear some traders like it just the way it is and fear its historic feel may be lost if plans are too modern.

But do they look to modern? It is fair to say they do look like they aim to create a more modern space but this is a question that has been passed around the market since the idea was revealed.

One of most loved things about the market and what makes it so unique is the historic feel and the thought that could be lost would be very sad and a huge loss to the town.

The history of the market is even proudly displayed on the walls - which traders hope will stay no matter what happens.

The history displayed on the walls (Image: Trevor Porter) I think we can all agree that the space is in need of something but it's vital to those there that it does not lose the historic feel, but if the building isn't looked after will it be around for years to come? Like anything it will certainly continue to age over time.

There could always be other things the money could be spent on in the town, but it seems to me that this building is a massive part of the town. Even amid claims town centres are dying there is definitely more than enough love for the building. 

If we want to secure its future and ensure generations to come continue to enjoy it I think it's important that something is done, something to make sure it continues to be a community hub.

Only time will tell whether the plans hit the nail on the head or are too much of a change.