History centre opened

2:40pm Friday 9th May 2008

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THE WILTSHIRE and Swindon History Centre was today officially opened by Princess Anne.

She toured the building in Cocklebury Road, Chippenham and saw some of the conservation work being carried out, from map restoration to the care of ancient remains.

Her visit came days after it was announced that the building has been approved by the National Archives as a place for public records.

More than 10,000 people have visited the centre since it moved from Swindon and opened its doors in October last year.

It provides space for archive storage as well as improved access, a classroom, larger reading rooms and internet facilities.

Wiltshire County Council leader Jane Scott said: "This ceremony gave us an opportunity to celebrate the key role the centre is playing in helping thousands of people to trace their family trees and learn more about local history."

Rod Bluh, leader of Swindon Borough Council, added: "The building shows how we can invest in new designs for the future which preserve and honour our past. I will do everything I can to encourage people to make good use of this archive and its resources."

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