Devizes Northgate Street Road Closure: Fire Damage Keeps Key Town Centre Route Shut as Council Urges Resolution

Published on December 13, 2025

The ongoing partial closure of Northgate Street in Devizes continues to cause significant disruption more than a year after a devastating fire damaged The Kebab and Pizza House in November 2024. As the town’s key central route has been closed to traffic, residents, businesses, and tourists have been feeling the impact of the roadwork delays and continued safety concerns surrounding the damaged building. The situation, according to Wiltshire Council, is “out of their hands,” with the closure tied to ongoing structural assessments and the need for further action from the property owner.

As the council waits for crucial structural reports, residents and business owners continue to express frustration at the lack of a clear resolution. While the council is working to expedite parts of the process, the final decision rests on the ongoing negotiations and structural inspections of the damaged building.

Ongoing Disruptions and the Road to Recovery

The fire in November 2024 severely damaged The Kebab and Pizza House, leading to a partial closure of Northgate Street due to safety concerns. Despite the extensive damage to the building, the council confirmed that the structure is currently stable due to the shoring that has been put in place. However, the damaged building remains in limbo as the owner awaits further structural reports before applying for permission to demolish and rebuild the property.

The diversion set in place has restricted traffic from reaching Devizes Market Place, causing a significant inconvenience to local businesses. For tourists visiting the area, the diverted routes have added extra travel time and frustration, with some attractions and restaurants being less accessible due to the ongoing closures.

Local officials, including Cllr Mel Jacob, Deputy Leader of Wiltshire Council, are working closely with the property owner’s agent in hopes of reaching a conclusion soon. While they continue to advocate for a quicker resolution, they are limited in their ability to compel action from the building’s owner. Cllr Jacob mentioned that discussions with the owner’s representatives are progressing positively, though it’s clear the matter remains complex, largely due to the nature of the building’s historic construction.

The Toll on Businesses and Visitors

For businesses in the heart of Devizes, the prolonged closure of Northgate Street has led to a noticeable dip in foot traffic. Shops, cafes, and other businesses that typically rely on customer movement through the town centre are finding it harder to attract patrons due to the diversion. Local business owners have voiced their concerns about the future, as ongoing road disruptions continue to harm the local economy.

For visitors planning to explore Devizes’ historic sites or enjoy the charming Market Place, the road closure has added unexpected delays. With restricted access to key routes, tourists may find it more challenging to navigate the town. However, the town’s historical charm remains intact, and those willing to take the diverted routes will still find a welcoming atmosphere despite the traffic headaches.

Steps Toward Resolution: What the Council Is Doing

While the council has limited control over the private property, they are doing what they can to expedite the process. According to Cllr Jacob, the council is working diligently to speed up the parts of the process they can control, such as assessing the planning applications. The goal is to get Northgate Street back to normal, and the council is hopeful that progress will be made in the coming months.

The timeline for reopening remains unclear, but the council has promised to keep the public informed and work as quickly as possible. The council’s statement assured the public that once the necessary processes are completed, the road will be fully reopened, and the road closure in place will be lifted. The council hopes to have more positive news about the situation in early 2026.

Impact on Devizes’ Tourism: Tips for Visitors

Despite the ongoing disruptions, Devizes remains a captivating destination for tourists. The town is known for its historic charm, picturesque streets, and vibrant community. However, visitors should be prepared for a few challenges when travelling to the town in the coming months.

Here are a few tips for visitors planning to explore Devizes during this period of disruption:

1. Use Alternative Routes:
   Be aware of the road closures around Northgate Street. Ensure you plan your route ahead of time to avoid delays. Using apps like Google Maps or Waze can help you navigate through the diversion routes.
2. Check Opening Hours:
   Given the road disruptions, some businesses may adjust their operating hours. Always call ahead or check online to ensure your destination is open during your visit.
3. Explore On Foot:
   Once in Devizes, many attractions, including the famous Devizes Market and historical buildings, are within walking distance. Consider exploring the town on foot to avoid further traffic complications.
4. Support Local Businesses:
   While some businesses are impacted by the closures, many are still open and welcoming visitors. Stop by local cafes, restaurants, and shops to support the community during this challenging time.
5. Visit Nearby Attractions:
   If the road disruptions make getting into the town centre difficult, consider visiting nearby attractions like the Wiltshire Museum or the Caen Hill Locks. These destinations remain accessible and offer a rich experience of the town’s history and beauty.

Conclusion: A Road to Recovery

The road closure in Devizes, initially expected to be a temporary inconvenience, continues to impact the local community over a year later. While the issue remains out of Wiltshire Council’s hands, the situation is being addressed as quickly as possible, with the aim of reopening Northgate Street as soon as feasible. In the meantime, visitors and residents must continue to adapt to the diversions in place and support local businesses facing difficulties due to the extended closure.

As the council and property owner continue to work together, there is hope that the road will soon reopen, and Devizes will return to normal. The patience of the local community has been commendable, and with every step forward, the town moves closer to fully resolving this complex issue.

Key Points:

• Northgate Street Closure: The road has been partially closed for over a year due to fire damage at The Kebab and Pizza House.
• Impact on Local Businesses: The closure is affecting local businesses in the town centre, causing a reduction in foot traffic and customer visits.
• Tourists Impacted: Visitors to Devizes may face delays due to diversions and restricted access to key areas like the Market Place.
• Council’s Role: Wiltshire Council is working on expediting processes they can control but is limited by factors such as the private property owner’s decisions.
• Expected Timeline: The council hopes to have a resolution and more positive news by early 2026.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated