Highworth Town Council received advice that the Podium in the Market Square was in need of urgent maintenance and rebuilding. This was primarily due to the damage being inflicted by the London Plane tree on both the surface and the outer walls due to its immense growth. As a result, the Council set up The Podium Development Group, to address the problem. The Group was charged with consulting residents for their ideas as to how this re-development should be carried out and what ideas they would like to see incorporated in that re-development.

At the Council’s disposal was monies written into the Section 106 agreement between Taylor Wimpey and Swindon Borough Council from the development at Fitzgerold Avenue in Highworth. 

Initial thoughts were that the tree would most likely have to come out as it has a growth rate that is unmanageable in such a small area and the Council was advised that it was an inappropriate choice of tree for that site.

It was essential that residents were given every chance to express their views on this matter and also on what should go on the Podium and were asked to write/email the office. These views were collating and discussed by the Development Group and a final plan drawn up.

The photos show the project and the various build stages right through to the finished Podium that can be seen today, with the inclusions of plaques in the base of the podium structure.

The addition of a tree can now be seen to be establishing itself nicely and will continue to grow for years to come.

The recent COVID-19 situation has made trading in coffee shops, cafes and pubs difficult, Highworth Town Council have allowed traders to have tables and chairs on the podium to allow their customers to enjoy their food and beverage while taking in the beauty of the Market Square.