Masons Arms, Warminster

This project secured delegated planning permission from Wiltshire Council for the conversion of the Grade II listed Masons Arms public house into three one-bedroom apartments, one two-bedroom apartment, and two two-bedroom dwellings, along with the construction of two new three-bedroom dwellings on land to the rear of the site.

The Masons Arms, located within the Warminster Conservation Area, required a design approach that respected its significant historical designation. The scheme was developed in close collaboration with the Council to preserve and enhance the building’s architectural and historic character. Key elements of its original detailing were restored, ensuring it remained a focal point along East Street and contributed positively to the rhythm of the street scene.

The viability of retaining the public house use was carefully examined. An extensive marketing campaign and detailed viability appraisal provided robust evidence that the use was no longer viable, a conclusion accepted by the Council.

Given the site’s location within the River Avon Special Area of Conservation catchment, the application was required to achieve phosphate neutrality. A strategy was agreed that reduced phosphate loading outputs compared to existing levels, significantly lowering the required financial mitigation to meet nutrient neutrality requirements.

The development will deliver nine new dwellings within Warminster Town Centre, making a meaningful contribution to the Council’s housing land supply.