Market's £1m revamp 'will encourage more business'

The town council's clerk, Simon Fisher, said work is expected to begin next year

A historic indoor market is set to undergo a £1m revamp, which will rejuvenate the building "without losing its character".

Under the proposals, new toilets, more seating and a lobby area will be built at The Shambles in Devizes, Wiltshire.

Plans also include making the building, which is owned by Devizes Town council, more energy efficient. It is hoped the changes will encourage more business, the council said.

Traders told the BBC they had "mixed" opinions to the proposals as they did not want the Grade II-listed building to lose its charm.

The council's clerk Simon Fisher said he wanted to stop the building, which dates back to 1835, becoming "so cold" during winter months.

He said: "It's like a wind tunnel - every bit of energy we put in gets sucked out the doors."

The market has two sections: one for table-top stalls and also individual units

Council leaders hope the revamp will allow the market to "support community events, encourage more business and will help to promote the town as a great place to visit".

"We don't want to lose the character of the building.

"Historically, we're going to put some of the original features back.

"There's an awful lot of history attached to this building and we're proud to be the owners of it," Mr Fisher added.

The market has two sections: one with changing stallholders using table-tops, and the other with individual units.

Council leaders are now assessing the results of a recent consultation before confirming their final plans.

Mr Fisher added that the council would "probably have to borrow some money" to pay for the work, which is predicted to start next year.