Town centre regeneration

Frequently asked questions

Swindon's regeneration is not only about physical change. It is about renewing pride in the town centre and building a place where people feel connected, welcomed and part of a shared future.

To help you understand what's happening and how to get involved, we've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the Heart of Swindon vision and the projects taking place.

What is the Heart of Swindon vision?

The Heart of Swindon is our long-term strategy to transform the town centre. It focuses on creating a safe, vibrant, and attractive place where more people choose to live, work and spend time. The plan includes:

  • improving public spaces
  • attracting businesses and investment
  • building high-quality homes
  • supporting a thriving town centre economy
  • How is the council working with businesses and landlords?

Download the vision for the Heart of Swindon (PDF).

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What are the major long-term projects happening?

Major regeneration schemes include:

  • Swindon Knowledge Central
    • A large-scale redevelopment around the railway station to create a new district for business, education and research
  • Fleming Way improvements
    • A £33 million upgrade to the bus interchange, public spaces, and walking and cycling routes
  • Town centre housing
    • More homes in central locations to bring life and activity beyond office hours

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What improvements are happening in the short-term?

We're delivering a number of quick-win projects that are already making a difference. These include:

  • tree planting, green walls and high-quality landscaping
  • better lighting on pedestrian routes and in key areas
  • temporary uses of vacant shops, such as pop-ups and community spaces
  • more public events at places like Wharf Green

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What is being done about vacant shops and buildings?

We're working with landlords and businesses to bring empty shops back into use. This includes:

  • supporting temporary uses such as independent pop-ups and local art projects
  • exploring a Business Improvement District to help fund shared town centre improvements

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Will there be more things to do in the evening?

Yes. Plans to grow Swindon's evening and leisure economy include:

  • a proposed rooftop recreation space with sports and leisure activities
  • more cultural and community events
  • expanded outdoor hospitality, including pavement cafés, restaurants and beer gardens

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What's happening with the Health Hydro?

The Health Hydro is undergoing major restoration to secure its future as a modern health and wellbeing destination. Improvements include:

  • roof repairs and ventilation upgrades
  • internal restoration and conservation work
  • enhancing its facilities while preserving its historic character

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How is the council working with businesses and landlords?

We're building strong partnerships to deliver regeneration. This includes:

  • a feasibility study for a Business Improvement District in the town centre
  • collaboration with landlords and developers to bring forward investment and new uses
  • ongoing engagement with businesses and residents to shape plans together

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How can I get involved in the town centre's transformation?

There are several ways to take part:

  • Respond to public consultations and surveys
  • Attend community events and town centre activities
  • Support local shops, cafés and new initiatives as they open

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What's the latest on the Carriage Works?

The Carriage Works is a vital part of Swindon's railway heritage and a landmark for the community. Built in 1876 as part of Brunel's Great Western Works, the site was once a hub of Victorian innovation.

In recent years, Swindon Borough Council has led efforts to bring it back into use. Highlights so far include:

  • The Workshed
    • A flexible business space for local start-ups, entrepreneurs and small companies
  • The Cultural Heritage Institute
    • Part of the Royal Agricultural University, now based in the Carriage Works, helping to link heritage with learning and innovation

We are now progressing with Phase 3 of the project, which includes:

  • refurbishing long-vacant buildings next to the Bristol Street car park and along London Street
  • improving links to the wider Railway Quarter, between the Carriage Works and Swindon train station

This redevelopment is helping to preserve a much-loved part of Swindon's history, while creating spaces that support jobs, learning and community use.

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How long will it take to see real change?

Some projects are already having an impact. For example:

The Council is committed to making visible, year-on-year progress that builds a stronger town centre for the future.

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