'Game-changing' plans to transform town

Emery Gate Shopping Centre is based in the heart of Chippenham's town centre

There is strong "enthusiasm" to transform Chippenham into a "destination" for nightlife and shopping, developers have said.

A consultation on the future of Emery Gate Shopping Centre, which is owned by Acorn Property Group (APG), has been taking place this month.

Residents have voiced a "clear preference" for a mixed-use development that combines residential and commercial spaces - and could include new leisure and entertainment options.

Head of commercial property at APG, Dane Cummings, said: “It’s encouraging to see 274 people attend our recent drop-in event and to collect over 80 pieces of feedback so far."

He added: "The enthusiasm for the future of Emery Gate is clear."

Developers are now keen to hear from more residents to help them create a plan that would be a "game-changer" for Chippenham.

Group marketing director, Danica Clements, said the company was keen to "create a destination for the people of Chippenham".

"Rather than it being seen as a commuter town and people having to travel further afield to do things in the day or in the evening, they can do things on their doorstep," she said.

During the consultation, residents have emphasised the importance of enhancing the connection between Emery Gate, Island Park and the River Avon. People would like "a more cohesive and inviting environment", developers have said.

Mr Cummings added: "We want to hear from as many people as possible about what you think the future of Emery Gate should look like, so please get in touch.”

Danica Clements and Dane Cummings from the Acorn Property Group are both working on the project

Developers were keen to stress that plans for Emery Gate are still in the early stages. Feedback will be used to refine their future prosposals, which will be shared in a follow-up consultation scheduled for September.