Councillors Propose Revitalization for Swindon’s Magic Roundabout

Two councillors have stated that a revitalization effort would restore the “magic” to Swindon’s renowned Magic Roundabout. This structure, characterized by five smaller mini-roundabouts encircling a central island, recently received the “roundabout of the year” award, yet the two councillors observe its current appearance as fatigued. Among the proposed enhancements for this “white-knuckle ride” is an initiative to invite schools to produce artwork for its central area. Councillor Kevin Parry, speaking prior to a discussion on the proposal, remarked: “There’s not very much magic about the Magic Roundabout at the moment despite it being a fantastic piece of traffic engineering.” Parry, accompanied by fellow Conservative councillor Barbara Parry, indicated that their scheme “would have a real impact on the town in a similar way to those we have seen in many cities across Europe”. The motion further specified: “Schools and local businesses could be invited to join in to improve the look of the Magic Roundabout, with thought being given to designing fun characters that can be made and paid for by local businesses and installed in the centre of the magic roundabout.” Should the motion be approved, a process requiring endorsement from Labour councillors, council officers would be tasked with investigating the potential options and submitting a report containing more concrete proposals to the cabinet at a later date. Kevin Parry additionally stated: “We’ve seen other towns embrace this sort of thing, reclaiming ‘no go’ areas and making them popular attractions.” He referenced the Swindogs, described as 30 super-sized and uniquely adorned balloon dog sculptures that constituted an art trail across Swindon in 2023, as a precedent, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service. He further elaborated: “With the buy-in of children and also business, which really got behind the Swindogs, this could be something really good, which helps to put Swindon on the map, not just for our roundabout but for creativity.” The roundabout, which commenced operation in 1972, has recently experienced deterioration akin to other roadways within the town, manifesting in potholes and eroding edges. Furthermore, its white road markings have faded. The proposed motion is scheduled for debate on Thursday. For updates, follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.