13-06-2025
New update on historic Carriage Works project
New roofing has been installed as part of the new Carriage Works regeneration project.
The council hopes to "bring new life to these historic buildings" as part of a regeneration phase that began in April.
They said: "The latest phase of regeneration at the historic site began in April with new roof slating being installed before glazing and windows are added."
Work is continuing to progress with Nationwide Engineering contractor coming in to "convert the four units inside into useable space for future uses".
The council's statement continued: "The units have been designed as 'shell and core' spaces, meaning they are flexible for an incoming organisation to configure as they see fit.
"This could include high quality office space, research and development, educational spaces or digital and creative work areas.
"The historic site has already been part refurbished and is home to the Cultural Heritage Institute, iCAST (run by the University of Bath and University of Oxford), Create Studios and The Workshed."
The town centre building was constructed in 1876 and became part of the largest locomotive carriage works in the country.
But the site sat empty for nearly 30 years following its closure in 1986.
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The development will also include refurbished spaces on the Bristol Street car park side of the building and on London Street which has been derelict and empty for decades.
Plans are being formed to decide how this land can be repurposed to provide a new commercial, educational, and residential quarter.
Councillor Kevin Small, Swindon Borough Council's cabinet member for finance, said: "Not only will this bring new life to these historic buildings, but it will also enhance the surrounding area, bringing in more footfall to the town centre."
On May 5, the Advertiser reported that the new Carriage Works had been shortlisted for a prestigious regional award.
The project is up for the regeneration and conservation category at the Construction Excellence South West Awards.
Residents are still able to vote for the Carriage Works project via the Construction Excellence South West Awards website.
The ceremony will take place at the Aerospace Bristol on July 17.
Ross Simmonds, regional director for Historic England in the South West, said: 'We're delighted that the Carriage Works in Swindon has been shortlisted for the 2025 Constructing Excellence South West regeneration and conservation award, highlighting the power of heritage-led partnerships to breathe new life into communities."
