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Moving to Salisbury and south Wiltshire

If you're thinking of moving to Salisbury and south Wiltshire, or have recently done so, we would like to introduce you to the council, the area, and what it's like to live here.

Just looking

The latest key statistics about house prices, average earnings and the area's population may help you decide where to live. Prominent local companies include Friends Provident and Qinetiq. Local jobs are usually advertised in the Salisbury Journal or the Avon Advertiser, and if you're looking to set up a business, you can find more detailed information about support for local commerce on our economic development pages.

One of Salisbury's beautiful parks

A brief summary of Salisbury District Council services and current council tax rates can be found in the latest edition of the council tax leaflet. The housing pages include information about transfering your council tenancy from one local authority to another. Once you are settled in the district, you might also be interested in applying for our affordable housing schemes.

Local schools are listed on the Wiltshire County Council website, where you can search by name or postcode. You can also read relevant school performance and Ofsted inspection reports.

Practical help

When you move house, you will need to make sure you get on the Salisbury District Council electoral roll, so that you will be able to vote in any elections. You are also likely to need to pay council tax, although you can may also be eligible to apply for discounts, exemption, or housing or council tax benefit.

Recycle on your doorstep
or at recycling sites across the district

You will have regular household waste and recycling collections and you might want to use the local waste disposal facilities, mini recycling sites, or to ask us to get rid of some bulky household waste.

When thinking of making an alterations to your new home, you'll need to know about building regulations and how to apply for planning permission.

If you live near the centre of Salisbury you may be in a residential parking zone and will need to apply for residential parking permits. Remember to contact the DVLA to let them know your change of address for both your driving licence and the registered address of your vehicle.

Finding a new NHS doctor, dentist or optician can be done through the nhs.uk website or by phoning NHS Direct on 0845 4647. Find out about local blood donor sessions and update your contact details if you are already a donor, at www.blood.co.uk or by phoning 0845 7 711 711.

For a small cost, Royal Mail will redirect any post still going to your old address.

About the district

Location of Salisbury District Council area

Salisbury District Council has 55 councillors (members) who elect a new chairman each year. Ten members sit on the Cabinet, working in four themed portfolios, and councillors also sit on various other committees covering planning, scrutiny and their other responsibilities.

While we are redeveloping our main council offices, the main customer services and reception is at Pennyfarthing House.The council currently has several smaller additional offices in Salisbury, as well as Amesbury and Mere Information Centres.

Three times a year, the council publishes a magazine called the South Wiltshire Citizen. It goes to every home in the district and keeps you updated on the latest news, events and plans.

Wiltshire County Council is responsible for many aspects of local roads and transport, although Salisbury District Council runs its own park and ride scheme. Local bus companies such as Wilts and Dorset provide key transport links in the district, for which the over-60s can claim concessionary bus passes, and there are also special walking and cycling routes.

Salisbury has three major leisure centres, as well as extensive parks, regular markets and a dedicated arts venue. Libraries are managed by Wiltshire County Council, but Salisbury District Council runs the Guildhall and City Hall. As well its own cinema, the city of Salisbury also has the Playhouse, a theatre with that draws a wide regional audience. Our Wisecard scheme gives up to 65% discount on activities and admission at participating venues, for Salisbury District Council residents in receipt of low income or disability benefits.

Famous local attractions include Old Sarum, Wilton House and Stonehenge. You will find plenty of inspiration for more daytrips at www.visitsalisbury.com.