The historic property is to be converted into living accommodation after serving the Wiltshire community for more than 230 years
A historic shop in a Wiltshire village that first opened its doors in 1794 is set to bid its final goodbye as new owners plan to transform the premises into a residential property.
The store at 1 High Street, Ramsbury, served the local community until 2009 when it shut down due to dwindling patronage and subsequently operated as a charity shop until 2024.
The current proprietors of the Grade II listed building have now submitted an application to Wiltshire Council seeking permission to repurpose the former retail space into living quarters.
While the exterior will largely remain untouched – with the characteristic bay window staying put and the original shop sign slated for restoration and a fresh coat of paint – the interior modifications mean it’s unlikely to function as a shop again.
The shop occupied a minor portion of the overall structure, featuring a retail area facing the high street and attic storage.
In a submission to Wiltshire Council, the applicant’s representative said: “Whilst the residential element of no.1 is being occupied, the shop remainsredundant and is in a very poor state of repair.”
They further explained the decline in the shop’s condition, noting: “As the viability of the shop steadily declined over the years, so did the investment into this part of the building.”
Detailing the extent of the disrepair, they added: “There is a leaking roof which needs addressing, asbestos tiles on the roof and there is no heating and the space is suffering from damp problems.”
Given the significant investment required to rectify these issues, they said: “The space therefore requires significant investment. Consequently, in its present poor state of repair, the shop could not be placed on the market for rent.”
The agent cautioned: “Without these works, the former shop is likely to continue to deteriorate, which would represent a far greater risk to the significance of the listed building.
“Overall, the scheme offers a balanced approach: essential repairs and sensitive integration of spaces that sustain the building’s use and secure its future, while causing no more than a minimal degree of change to its special architectural and historic interest.”
The applicants want to transform the former retail premises into an extra reception room.
They are also proposing to demolish a contemporary conservatory at the property’s rear to establish an open-plan kitchen, dining and living space.
The village continues to house a post office – merely a few doors away from the former shop – alongside a convenience store on nearby Oxford Street.
Wiltshire Council is expected to reach a decision in February.
