Chippenham Station, Entrance Building and Attached Platform Canopies Statement of Significance

A walkover of the Site was undertaken by heritage professionals from Mott MacDonald on the 6 th December 2024 to: � Inform understanding of Chippenham Station, including its current condition, appearance and character; � Complete a photographic survey of Chippenham Station; � Inform understanding of the setting of Chippenham Station, including the character of the surrounding area and any heritage assets of relevance; and � Inform the assessment of significance contained within this report. The following resources have been consulted for the compilation of this SoS: � National Heritage List for England (NHLE); � A search of Wiltshire Council website for conservation areas within the site surrounding area; � Chippenham conservation area Statement (2004) and Appraisal (2007); � Records available at Wiltshire & Swindon History Centre, Chippenham; � Documents and photographs available online, including aerial imagery from Britain From Above and Historic England Aerial Photo Explorer, and newspaper articles from British Newspaper Archive; � An examination of the relevant published and unpublished archaeological and historic sources e.g. journals and historic records; and � Additional resources available online. Chippenham Station's significance is derived from its long history, association with Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and role in the Great Western Railway (GWR), which boosted local economic growth and connectivity. Architecturally, it features high-quality materials and craftsmanship, such as squared limestone ashlar blocks and intricate ironwork, reflecting the GWR's 19th century design standards. The station retains many original features, contributing to its historic character, though the poor condition of some elements, like the platform canopies, diminishes the aesthetic value of the building's original design intent slightly. The station's historic and continuing use and architectural unity with other GWR stations is a key element of its significance. The setting of Chippenham Station makes a small positive contribution to its significance. In particular, the surviving elements of the former ironworks to the north allow for a limited understanding of the area's industrial history and how the railway prompted the development of the area. The retail park warehouses to the north and the extensive car parking around the station make no contribution to the significance of the station. It is recommended that the information in this SoS is used to inform the development of a scheme of works at Chippenham Station. Particular regard should be given to protecting and enhancing those elements identified as making a positive contribution to the significance of the asset overall, such as the exterior of the station buildings and the canopies. In particular, the canopies should be repaired and timber fascia boards reinstated where they are missing, to match the original design. Any new development or works at Chippenham Station will require thorough understanding and appreciation for the heritage significance of the site. It is recommended that pre-application advice is sought from the Local Authority Conservation Officer to inform design development. The continued use of the station as such will preserve its historic interest, but there is scope to better reveal and enhance the significance of the station through conservation and repair works to the station buildings, most notably the station canopies. Once the design of any proposed works to the canopies is finalised, a heritage impact assessment should be produced to understand the impact of the proposals on the significance of Chippenham Station. Any works to Chippenham Station will require Listed Building Consent.