2 weeks Ago
Adver readers gave their verdict on plans to redevelop the town centre. Tower blocks holding flats as well as shops, restaurants, bars and leisure facilities could become a much more common feature where parades of shops now dominate. Swindon Borough Council launched its Heart of Swindon proposals to investors at the House of Lords last month, with increasing housing rights in the heart of the town centre crucial to the plans.
Here’s what you had to say on the matter . Andrew Wright said, “We need a bigger hospital.” Wayland Smith replied: “The hospital needs to be closed and moved to the town centre, where staff and patients can access it.
“Thousands of visitors and well-paid staff would transform the town centre overnight.” Martyn Pearce said, “If it takes as long as the bus boulevard to build, no one commenting will ever see it happen.” Roman Piotrowski said: “We had a decent town centre until the council allowed out-of-town centre shopping centres like Orbital and Greenbridge.
Take them back to the town centre for the start of any regeneration – Simples.” Stephanie Shirley said: “If they built family suitable homes above shops in town, you would provide much needed homes for families who would use the shops and help businesses thrive in the town centre. In turn, it would encourage others to use the town centre as well.
” Simon Goodlad said: “Years of reimagining, very little action.” Jacqui Griffiths said: “Can't afford the parking charges.” Richard Fishpool replied: “Don't like paying for parking is closer to the truth.
It's not that expensive. If you can't afford to pay for car parking, then you seriously need to rethink if you can run a vehicle.” Lee Sartin said: “I don’t think we need a ‘town centre’ anymore.
It is mainly used to serve residents who live close to this part of town. “Most parts of Swindon either have a district centre or an Outlet for retail purposes. Also, many retailers have relocated to the Outlet from the town centre.
That just shows you what businesses think is viable. How about turning it into Central Park?” Suzana D’agostino said: “I wish all the shops that were around as a teenager were still here – Littlewoods, C&A, McIlroys, Debenhams, Van Allen, now it's a tragedy.” Tim Stevens said: “We would be the only town I know of where the actual town centre isn't the main shopping area.
It used to be so good back in the 80s, but now is what it is.” Dave Rose said: “Flats, cafes and restaurants a town centre does not make.” Lesley Everson said: “Everyone talks of more shops in Swindon, but the small, easy things like a clean-up and lowering parking costs can start immediately.
“The entrance into town is disgraceful, with the biffas [sic] surrounded by garbage and people putting rubbish on top. The race track in the town centre can be stopped, making it safe and pleasant to shop, then start bringing the shops.” Clarissa Horner said: “The town needs decent food shopping.
It’s ok having all the shops out of town but people like me that live in town and don't drive it's not easy to do shopping without relying on a friend to take you or pay extra minimum £6 for taxi, getting a bus is not a option as I don't live on a bus route. “Miss being able to walk to Sainsbury's, doing a full shop, pushing it home in the trolley, returning the trolley the next day.” Paul Adams said: “Quality, not quantity.
Large flagship store, not coffee shops, nail shops and barbers or bargain outlets..
