Wiltshire pushes forward with Salisbury regeneration plans

Wiltshire Council has agreed to set aside funds to regenerate the Maltings and central car park area in Salisbury town centre.

County councillors met last month (November 26) to approve an increase in its capital programme and develop its plans for joined-up development at the Maltings to realise the site’s potential.

According to the council report, the site needs redevelopment to ‘boost Salisbury’s economy’ and respond to the ‘economic shocks’ that have impacted on the city in recent years.

The council’s strategic planning committee has already endorsed the Maltings masterplan and granted permission for a first phase hotel, library and gym, whose delivery will unlock a second phase of development on Market Walk.

Most of the site is owned freehold by the council, including the land on which the Maltings shopping centre sits.

‘It is a prime city centre location, but it feels cut off from the core of the city and has significant redevelopment potential to improve visitors’ experience,’ the report states.

‘The Maltings offers the possibility of delivering a step change in Salisbury’s profile, environment and economic performance.

‘This can be done by redeveloping the area, opening up Market Walk to create a strong link between the Maltings and the Market Place, and delivering a high-quality landscape setting by enhancing the River Avon and Millstream edges.

‘Proposals also include the establishment of a cultural hub including improvements around the City Hall and Playhouse area.’

Many traders in Salisbury suffered after a former spy was poisoned in the city in March 2018.

‘I am pleased this decision was approved by full council as it gives us the opportunity to take a holistic approach to the regeneration of the Maltings area and redevelop Market Walk to provide a high-quality commercial link between the Market Place and the Cultural Quarter,’ said council leader, Cllr Philip Whitehead.

‘This comprehensive approach to development will deliver significant benefits for residents, visitors and traders alike and enables us to improve the city’s housing, commercial and cultural offer.’

Photo Credit – Diego Torres (Pixabay)