Swindon Oasis Redevelopment Plans Include Hundreds of New Residences

Fresh proposals detailing hundreds of new residences have been revealed, signaling progress for the long-anticipated renovation of a prominent, yet disused, leisure facility. Regeneration firm Seven Capital’s proposals indicate their intention to “revive” the Oasis leisure centre in Swindon. This initiative also encompasses the construction of up to 710 new residences and additional facilities, forming a new community centered around the leisure hub. Both the leaseholder, Seven Capital, and the landowner, Swindon Borough Council, anticipate the reopening of the site by 2026. Jim Robbins, the council leader, expressed his eagerness for individuals to be “enjoying Oasis again”. An accord between the council and Seven Capital was formalized in May this year. This agreement grants the developer permission to construct housing on adjacent land in exchange for funding the multi-million-pound refurbishment required to revitalize the abandoned facility. A public consultation period, inviting feedback on the plans from local residents and businesses, was scheduled to commence online on Wednesday. Furthermore, a public exhibition is slated for Tuesday at the Swindon and Wiltshire Institute of Technology. The Oasis first opened its doors on New Year’s Day in 1976. Conceived by Gillinson Barnet & Partners, the Royal Institute of British Architects characterized it as a “fantasy structure, its half-submerged dome resembling a flying saucer”. Visitors frequented the venue not solely for its swimming facilities but also for various events and musical performances. Nevertheless, the establishment ceased operations in October 2020, following a declaration by its operator, GLL, that it was no longer financially sustainable. Beyond the renovation of the Oasis’s distinctive dome, the proposals feature modern aqua play areas, a bowling alley, an indoor golf facility, a gymnasium, and café zones. The developers have additionally outlined intentions for two new commercial ventures, potentially generating up to 630 new positions, 90% of which are projected to be full-time employment. Mr Robbins commented: “Hopefully, the most overwhelming thing is people will want to see the Oasis come back. People can take their kids there, take them swimming, have those same memories they’ve had for themselves with their own families.” Seven Capital indicated that the renovation of the Oasis would constitute the initial phase of the project, preceding any other construction. Damien Siviter, group managing director at SevenCapital, stated: “We know the Oasis centre is a very special place for families across Swindon and further afield. Our team has worked extremely hard to find a way to restore and re-open it in a way which enhances and maintains both the heritage and cultural significance of the building.” For updates, follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story suggestions can be sent via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for content on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.