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Beavens’ Leather Works Site

Holt, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire

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At the end of 2019, work began on redeveloping the old leather factory premises of J. & T. Beaven to mixed uses. The old stone buildings facing on to The Midlands are listed and will remain, outwardly at least, much the same, and will be converted to office, workshop and studio use. This is the focus of the first phase of work. Fairly recent buildings, mostly constructed of concrete blockwork, which cover much of the site to the rear, will be demolished and replaced by a residential development of 44 houses called The Tannery.

The interior of the main block is typical of 19th century factory buildings, with heavy timber beams that are supported by cast-iron stanchions. Floors, ceilings, window frames and stairs are in poor condition. Parts have recently been used for storage of Beavens’ products, for an upholstery business and by Bradford on Avon Museum’s Research Group. Elsewhere there were a furniture workshop, a stained glass restorer and other businesses.

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Holt village Wiltshire history leather tanning industry