The Leader of Swindon Borough Council has reached out to local landlords in a bid to help transform and regenerate parts of the town centre, particularly Fleet Street and Bridge Street.
Following the successful opening of the new Fleming Way bus interchange and surrounding public realm, the Council is now turning its attention to improving nearby areas to boost footfall and breathe new life into Swindon’s central district.
Council working with stakeholders to drive regeneration
The Council’s Inward Investment team has already begun discussions with local landlords and key stakeholders to identify potential improvements to Fleet Street and Bridge Street over the coming months and years.
Proposals under consideration include:
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Enhancing pedestrian areas with street art and planters
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Refreshing paving and upgrading public lighting
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Creating more attractive spaces for local businesses and visitors
While some landlords are already actively engaging in discussions, the Council is encouraging broader collaboration to help the area reach its full potential.
Council Leader urges greater collaboration
To strengthen this engagement, Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, has written to landlords inviting them to a forthcoming stakeholder workshop. The session will present detailed plans for public realm improvements and explore opportunities for partnership working to accelerate the area’s regeneration.
Councillor Robbins said:
“This area of Swindon used to be a bustling location with a popular outdoor market, and we want to bring that energy back.
Over the last few years, many local businesses have closed and the area’s reputation has suffered. We want to change that — to create a vibrant, welcoming space where people want to spend time and enjoy themselves.
The Council team has been working hard to deliver improvements, and I hope local landowners will engage with us to help accelerate this transformation.
I’ve said before that we want this to become an ‘Instagrammable’ destination — showcasing local art, creativity, and cultural talent. There’s only so much we can do as a Council, which is why we need private owners to work with us to fully realise the area’s potential.”
Building Swindon’s future together
The regeneration of Fleet Street and Bridge Street forms part of a broader vision to revitalise Swindon’s town centre — creating vibrant, safe, and attractive spaces that support local businesses and foster community pride.
Landlords and business owners interested in taking part in the upcoming workshop are encouraged to contact the Council’s Inward Investment team for further details.
