Swindon’s skyline may soon look a little less familiar as plans to retire six of the town’s long-standing high-rise blocks move towards a decision.
Next week (4 March), Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet will consider proposals to decommission Hatherleigh Court, Seagry Court, Milverton Court, Torrington Court, Cleverton Court and Upavon Court — buildings which have stood for more than six decades.
Recent structural surveys confirm what many residents have known for some time: the towers have reached the end of their practical lifespan.
Last year, the Council undertook extensive consultation with tenants. Of the 85 per cent of households who completed a survey, 79 per cent said they would rather move into alternative accommodation than remain in the blocks. For an issue that has lingered for years, that represents a decisive shift.
Council papers note growing frustration among residents, pointing to declining living standards and the limitations that come with ageing design. Across multiple rounds of engagement, a consistent message emerged — most people want a fresh start elsewhere.
Should Cabinet approve the plans, secure tenants will be entitled to protections under the Housing Act 1985 and the Land Compensation Act 1973. This includes the right to suitable alternative accommodation, taking into account household size, preferred location and any required adaptations. Those who have lived in their property for at least 12 months will qualify for a statutory home-loss payment.
The Council will also need to compulsorily purchase ten leasehold properties within the blocks. These flats were previously sold under the Right to Buy scheme. Housing officers are expected to meet individually with leaseholders to outline compensation arrangements and explain the process in detail.
Funding for the decommissioning and rehousing programme would come from the Council’s Housing Revenue Account — the ring-fenced pot formed from rental income, used solely for managing and maintaining council homes.
A separate decision regarding the long-term future of the sites will follow at a later date.
Councillor Janine Howarth, Cabinet Member for Housing, said the proposal marks the end of an era.
“If approved, these plans will finally call time on the Council’s ageing high-rise blocks, which have served their purpose over the last 60 years,” she said.
“The majority of tenants have told us clearly that they would prefer to live elsewhere — and we are acting on that feedback.
“We committed, through the Swindon Plan, to ensure everyone has a decent home. Decommissioning these blocks will remove outdated accommodation from our social housing stock.
“If Cabinet agrees the proposals, we will fully support and compensate tenants as they move to safe, modern homes that better meet their needs.”
For now, the decision rests with Cabinet. But after years of discussion, it appears that Swindon’s post-war towers may soon become part of the town’s history rather than its future.
