The Carriage Works in Swindon – a proud piece of the town’s industrial past – is back in the spotlight, this time for all the right reasons.
Following a careful and considered transformation, the much-loved railway heritage site has been shortlisted in the Regeneration and Conservation category of the 2025 Constructing Excellence South West (CESW) Awards. And yes – this one’s not just down to the experts. There’s a public vote, too.
The nominated project, Unit 7B, now home to the University of Bath and Oxford’s iCAST innovation hub, has been praised for retaining its Grade II listed charm while catering to the needs of a modern, forward-looking workforce.
From raw brickwork and arched windows to the unmistakable character that lingers in every beam and bolt, the space stands as a reminder of Swindon’s railway roots – while pointing firmly towards its future in digital, tech, and sustainability.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Cabinet Member for Placemaking and Planning at Swindon Borough Council, said:
“It’s great to see the Carriage Works getting the recognition it deserves. A lot of thought went into making the space both future-facing and respectful of the building’s heritage. We’re up against strong competition, but I know Swindon will rally behind it.”
The regeneration hasn’t stopped with iCAST. The Carriage Works site also houses The Workshed, a vibrant co-working space, Create Studios, and the Cultural Heritage Institute run by the Royal Agricultural University. Plans are already underway to open four more ‘shell and core’ units – flexible spaces awaiting future tenants from Swindon’s growing creative and technical scene.
Historic England’s South West Regional Director, Ross Simmonds, praised the Carriage Works as a shining example of how “heritage-led partnerships can breathe new life into communities”. The site was previously part of the town’s Heritage Action Zone, a scheme aimed at revitalising historically important areas across England.
The winners of the CESW Awards will be announced at a ceremony in July. Until then, public support could make all the difference.
To cast your vote for Carriage Works, visit:
https://cesw-awards.org.uk/2025/en/page/vote-now?nomination=add8-ingleton-wood
