Two major landowners in the town centre have thrown their support behind the transformation of Fleming Way.
FI Real Estate, which owns the Tri-Centre and Brunel Shopping Centre, along with Parade Swindon Limited, which controls the area including the old Debenhams building, have highlighted the regeneration work as a key reason for investing in the area and that it will act as a catalyst for future growth in Swindon.
Work to turn the road into a new bus interchange with an improved public realm and a green corridor is entering its final stages and, when complete, will rejuvenate the key gateway into the town centre.
Visitors via train, bus or bike will enjoy a vastly-improved public realm, with more than 175 trees and 23,000 plants and bushes being planted. This will enhance the surrounding environment, supporting local wildlife and, with some of the trees and bushes also being planted in The Parade and other public spaces, make the walk between the town centre and bus and train stations more welcoming for shoppers and visitors.
Once complete, the regeneration scheme will encourage further investment in the area with FI Real Estate having already invested £8m in their nearby offices at 1 Newbridge Square. Plans are also underway to create a new entertainment venue once the current bus station is demolished and Zurich has already opened its new headquarters, Unity Place, next to the road.
Dominic Knowles, Head of Offices at FI Real Estate Management, commented: “The regeneration of Fleming Way outside 1 Newbridge Square is nearing completion, bringing much-needed improvements to connectivity, public spaces, and infrastructure in the heart of Swindon.
“This transformation was a key factor for the £8m investment in the building as we saw the potential for this area to become a vibrant, well-connected hub for businesses and the wider community.
“1 Newbridge Square not only provides high-quality office and retail space but also aligns with Swindon’s broader vision for growth and regeneration. We’re proud to be part of this exciting transformation and to contribute to the town’s continued development.”
Simon Pullen, from Parade Swindon Limited, said: “It’s very exciting to see the Fleming Way scheme coming to an end and we’re very hopeful it will have a transformational impact on the area.
“We’re looking forward to seeing our schemes sit alongside Fleming Way and provide a much better welcome into the town centre than the previous road and underpass did.
“We’re very keen to see the new road increase footfall in the area and hopefully drive further investment, including in the new entertainment venue.”
Councillor Chris Watts, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, said: “It’s great to see two of the biggest landowners in the town publicly supporting the scheme and highlighting its benefits.
“We understand the importance of this project as the cornerstone for the wider regeneration of the town centre. We have worked very hard over the last 18 months with utility companies and Central Government to remove the barriers to completion and all involved are pleased that we’ve been able to claw back the project timeline.
“The opening of the road will act as a catalyst to build footfall in the area that will encourage other landowners and businesses to take notice of Swindon and invest.
“With the road nearing completion, those working, living in or visiting the town centre will start to notice the changes and I’m sure they’ll agree it’s starting to look much better.”