I was fascinated to learn from the Mayor that at the outbreak of the second world war, Melksham had a higher proportion of its land area given over to commerce than any other town in England.  And whilst some industries have changed and moved on, others have arrived and Melksham is has a bustling commercial heart, even though you might not see it if you just drive through or visit the town.    The Bowerhill industrial area, which has replaced RAF Melksham, is the home to several Queen's Award quality companies, and many many others too. There are major employers just  outside the town centre, and on other business parks.   And in some of the old Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian buildings, you'll find service industries - especially high tech ones.   It's surprising just how many web activities - from on line shops to call centres and more technical work - point to Melksham.

On the retail front, too, Melksham has a lot going for it.  When the Chamber of Commerce put together a town map recently, they found no fewer that 200 shops or other businesses who are open and will welcome you without an appointment.   And they're still finding more.    And Melksham has a reputation of being the "Takeaway Capital of Wiltshire".  You may wonder why, but such businesses thrive in the town, and it's other types of establishment that may seem to be struggling more at present.

And so - looking forward.  Where are we headed?   The Core Strategy identified land that could be used for further business development. But then it also categorises Melksham with the market town, suggesting much more limited development here than at the neighbouring towns of Chippenham and Trowbridge which are heavily promoted.  And as a third string to this bow, there's a very great deal of new housing authorised and under construction,  Wiltshire Council have moved 600 staff to the town for 2 years, and there are major new Asda and Waitrose stores.  The Wilts and Berks canal is proposed to rebuild to the edge of the town ...

The community needs to plan - to think where they want to be headed.   To encourage growth, to move towards becoming a dormitary town, or to leave "as is" and risk stagnation ....