THE DEMOLITION of the flat where Novichok victim Dawn Sturgess fell ill will help ensure "a positive future" for the region, Wiltshire Council has said.

On Monday, the Journal revealed that two flats in Muggleton Road, Amesbury, are to be knocked down.

One of them is the property in which Dawn Sturgess and her partner Charlie Rowley fell ill after coming into contact with the deadly nerve agent in the summer of 2018.

Ms Sturgess, 44, died as a result of exposure to Novichok while Mr Rowley later recovered.

Housing provider Stonewater says it has been working closely with Wiltshire Council to agree the best way forward for flats 9 and 11 at Muggleton Road.

A full options appraisal has been completed, including taking resident views and the current state of the properties into account.

Wiltshire Council will contribute funding towards providing two additional homes for affordable rent as part of a nearby Stonewater development at Ludgershall.

The Ludgershall site is currently in planning and work is scheduled to start after the summer, subject to approval.

"This means there will be no loss of housing provision in the area while ensuring residents at Muggleton Road are subject to minimal disruption.

"They are currently being consulted over a start date for demolition and their preference for the use of space once the work is complete," a statement from Stonewater confirms.

Wiltshire Council CEOs Alistair Cunningham and Terence Herbert said: “We have worked closely with Stonewater and the local community to find a positive solution to the property at Muggleton Road in Amesbury, while ensuring no loss in quality affordable housing provision.

“While we cannot forget the tragic events that unfolded at the property, its demolition and a new use for space, created in consultation with the local community, will help to ensure a positive future for the whole of south Wiltshire.”

Development Director at Stonewater, Jonathan Layzell, also praised the joined up approach between the Council, Stonewater and Amesbury residents: “The empty flats presented us with a unique and difficult challenge. It’s good that we’re now moving towards a successful conclusion that addresses the need for good quality, affordable housing in the area, as well as reflecting the views of residents and benefiting the wider local community.”