A run-down corner of Swindon town centre is being given a vibrant makeover as part of wider regeneration plans led by Swindon Borough Council.
Once home to a bustling outdoor market, the decline of Fleet Street and neighbouring Bridge Street has mirrored the experience of high streets across the country. Now, a new public art programme aims to breathe fresh life into the area, stimulate investment and restore a sense of pride.
The initiative is curated and managed by Artsite, the team behind Swindon Paint Fest. A series of large-scale artworks will celebrate Fleet Street’s heritage while creating a more welcoming and vibrant destination.
Five buildings in first phase
The first phase of the programme, supported by funding from the Council and Arts Council England through its Place Partnership Fund, focuses on five prominent buildings along Fleet Street.
Each building has a bespoke design brief shaped by its history, architecture and former uses, ensuring the murals reflect the character of the street.
Swindon-based artists Caryn Koh, Ed Poster and Dayna Baxter have been commissioned to deliver the initial artworks, with materials and services sourced locally wherever possible to keep investment within the town. Work is already underway, with new pieces beginning to transform the street. Progress can be followed via Artsite’s Instagram.
Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said the area had suffered from a lack of investment in recent years, with boarded-up shops and the closure of hospitality venues contributing to its decline.
He said the Council has been working with landowners to encourage progress on approved commercial and residential developments, while also exploring wider public realm improvements expected to begin in the coming months.
“We’re excited to be working with Artsite to brighten up the area and bring a vibrancy to a once-loved part of the town,” he said.
Helen Salter, Artsite’s Public Art Project Manager, said the programme was rooted in community pride and local creativity, helping Fleet Street step into the next chapter of its history.
Fleet Street and nearby Faringdon Road are home to more than 30 independent businesses, and the public art programme aims to complement that long-standing contribution by bringing renewed energy to the area.
Local artists interested in future opportunities are invited to contact swindonpaintfest@gmail.com.
