A £33 million infrastructure scheme in the centre of Swindon is due for completion in August.
The transport hub in Fleming Way, funded by the Government’s Future High Streets Fund (£25m), the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership’s Local Growth Fund (£3m) and Swindon Borough Council (£5m), will bring about a new bus interchange to replace the current aging bus station, along with new cycle lanes and improved public realm.
The scheme has been the catalyst for major investment by some of the town’s significant occupiers.
Visitors arriving by train, bus or bike will be greeted by new public realm with more than 181 trees and 23,000 plants and bushes.
There will be new bus shelters with space to allow for wheelchairs, wireless charging, digital screens and solar panels.
New cycle lanes have been added, connecting to the town’s two main cycle routes.
With all bus services moved to Fleming Way, the old bus station off Manchester Road will be demolished.
Cllr Jim Robbins, leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “This is just the first step in improving the town centre and encouraging the private sector to invest in Swindon.
“We’ve already seen Zurich and FI Real Estate Management showing great confidence in the town centre and we’re working closely with other landlords and organisations to improve other areas close by.
“The scheme itself will replace the dingy, unwelcome bus station with brand-new facilities, creating a lasting first impression of our town centre for visitors, workers and residents alike.
“I’d like to thank the project team for their tireless work in bringing the project to fruition and creating what will be the cornerstone of our plans to transform the town centre over the coming years.”
South Swindon MP, Heidi Alexander, said: “The opening of Fleming Way marks a major step forward in the creation of a town centre that Swindon can be proud of.
“Alongside the Council and with the help of private sector partners, I’m committed to driving forward our ambitious plans to breathe new life into the heart of our town.
“The new Fleming Way gateway is a vital piece of the puzzle, connecting the railway station to the town centre, attracting business investment, and improving access for local people.”
Fencing around the site will begin to come down from Friday, August 15 with bus companies starting to run services from Fleming Way from Sunday, August 31.
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