Queens Drive £34m regeneration project moves on to next stage

The next phase of a regeneration project which will see £34m invested as part of a development on Queens Drive has started.

Published: Friday, 13th August 2021

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Alongside the successful ongoing construction of the first phase of development at the former George Gay Gardens site, which will see the construction of 32 flats and 15 houses, the next phase will begin with the demolition of four derelict residential blocks in the coming months.

After demolition, construction company Willmott Dixon will look to create 68 new apartments and 34 houses.

The buildings at Queens Drive have been carefully designed to reflect Swindon’s distinctive history as a rail industry powerhouse.

Councillor Cathy Martyn, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Public Safety, said: “This £34m project delivers much needed, affordable housing in Swindon through the Council’s biggest housing regeneration scheme to date.

“It’s great to see work about to start on the next stage which will involve the demolition of the existing T-blocks and construction of 68 flats and 34 houses.

“These homes have been designed both to reflect the railway heritage (the gable ends for example, are based on the widths of the former engine sheds used to house, repair and maintain trains) and also to be modern, efficient and well-developed homes for the future. They will be light and airy to live in. This scheme has been designed so that people will be happy and comfortable living there.

“Along with the housing, we’ve taken steps to ensure that the homes are as climate friendly as possible by using solar panels and triple glazing, as well as taking steps to ensure the local wildlife continues to thrive with the help of 56 new bird boxes.

“I understand the importance of investing in our local communities and building good quality, affordable housing in Swindon is a top priority for this Council.”

The regeneration at Queens Drive is one of the Council’s major house building projects and will help the authority achieve its pledge to build new affordable homes and to develop brownfield sites. The plans involve building 149 affordable homes – 100 new flats and 49 new houses in total.

As well as increasing the number of affordable homes in Swindon, the development will act as a gateway to the town, providing a more welcoming drive into the town centre. 

Richard Poulter, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon’s Central South region, added: “We are delighted to be appointed to the next phase of Queens Drive, following our commencement of Phase 1A in 2020. 

“The project will provide much needed affordable housing within the town as well as providing a legacy to the proud railway heritage the town is renowned for.”

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