A plan to turn a former police station into flats has received National Lottery funding.

Cricklade Police Station was sold by Wiltshire Police to the Cricklade Development Foundation (CDF), who pledged to turn it into a development for the benefit of the town.

The society was formed in 2018 to help secure the future of the town’s high street.

In 2019, Cricklade Police Station became an asset of community value, meaning that CDF had the first refusal when the police station was put up for sale.

Wiltshire Council gave official planning permission for the development last month.

Now £10,000 has been awarded to the society to help fund the project.

Swindon Advertiser:

The money will be used to help with the cost of access to the former police station to commemorate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Artwork will be displayed telling the story of the Queen’s long reign, and Cricklade’s place within it.

A hidden side entry inside the property, previously used as an emergency exit, will be opened up to the public.

To ensure accessibility for all, the existing front door, currently three steps high, will be lowered to pavement level and a gentle incline will be created.

CDF expects to complete the new pedestrian walkway within the next six to 12 months. However, further significant funds still need to be raised however to bring all their renovation plans to fruition.

Chair of CDF Ruth Szybiak: “We are grateful for the support of the Lottery Fund and working with the local Historical Society we hope to bring a lasting legacy and commemoration of our Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.”