Shops to make way for town revamp

Properties owners will meet developers to negotiate a sale

Up to 80 businesses in Swindon could be demolished after the council agreed to pursue a compulsory purchase order, as part of the town's regeneration scheme.

Properties in Commercial Road, Temple Street, Havelock Street and Regent Street could be knocked down.

Building owners will be asked to meet developers to negotiate a sale deal but will also be allowed to appeal.

Swindon councillor Justin Tomlinson said the purchase order was a big step towards much wanted improvements.

"For a long time, local residents have been calling for a major town centre regeneration," he said.

"This is a huge and exciting scheme and now we've given the developers the confidence that they would definitely be able to get hold of the land to develop and they can proceed with negotiations with confidence."

A period of consultation will take place before a compulsory purchase order is made.

The regeneration project will bring new homes, shops and leisure facilities to the town.