Over 100 people turned out for a Big Conversation about the future of Swindon town centre on Saturday.
The event, hosted by Labour’s Candidate to be the next Member of Parliament for South Swindon, Heidi Alexander, unfolded at The Workshed, the refurbished railway carriage works on London Street.
Reflecting on the substantial attendance, Heidi expressed her satisfaction, stating, “I was really pleased that so many people came along and I hope everyone found it to be a useful and enjoyable way to spend their Saturday morning! There’s a huge desire to see improvements in the town centre and to tackle our dilapidated heritage assets. It’s going to take time though.”
Acknowledging the seismic shifts in shopping habits and work patterns, Heidi highlighted the challenges faced by towns nationwide, Swindon included, grappling with the compounded effects of Covid and the cost of living crisis. The intricate web of private ownership entwining much of the town centre adds a layer of complexity, making swift transformation a challenging feat. Heidi emphasised the necessity for collaborative efforts between the council and various stakeholders to drive effective regeneration.
“The fact that so much of our town centre is in private ownership means it is hard to drive rapid change and so regeneration will require close partnership working between the council and others. We should focus our short-term efforts on bringing temporary, “meanwhile” uses into the town centre in advance of larger scale transformation,” she said.
Highlighting successful endeavors like the paint fest that have ignited a spark in Swindon, she emphasised the importance of nurturing the town’s creative spirit. Initiatives such as “pop-up” shops, restaurants, and creative spaces can provide invaluable opportunities for small businesses and startups.
“Initiatives like the paint fest have lit a spark in Swindon” said Heidi, “we must build on our creative spirit and give opportunities to small businesses and start-ups through ‘pop-up’ shops, restaurants and creative spaces. And of course, we need to get the basics right – a safe, clean, green town centre that is easy to access.
“I was struck by the number of shop owners and retail managers who told me they haven’t seen a police officer in the town for years and are really struggling with problems of shoplifting and anti-social behaviour.”
