Swindon Borough Council wants to hear railway tales as it plans a new walking trail.
The town's Railway Village and its associated Works are full of stories from the past, and the council wants to bring these to life.
It will be hosting two events within the Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) to find stories that can enliven the new tours, while also informing people about the historical significance of the town’s railway heritage.
The council is encouraging people to attend the events to share their experiences from when the railway works was in its heyday.
Memories of the Railway Works, of meeting friends in the Mechanics Institute or from actually living in the Railway Village, will all help to inform the tours.
Cllr Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Heritage, Art and Culture, said: “We’re fascinated by the history of the Railway Village and the Railway Works and we want to hear your memories and family recollections.
“We know a lot about what was made in the area but we don’t know enough about the people who lived, worked and socialised here, so please come and tell us!
“We want the Railway Village to become a thriving hub of history and education where people can explore Swindon’s rich heritage and become immersed in their stories.”
The events are taking place on:
- Monday 15 January, 6pm to 8pm at The Glue Pot, Emlyn Square
- Monday 22 January, 10am to 11.30am at Darkroom Espresso, 11 Faringdon Road
The new tour will form part of the ongoing work to make the Heritage Action Zone a vibrant visitor destination.
Since the HAZ was created in 2019, the council has worked with partners, including Historic England, to improve a number of units in the Carriage Works including creating The Workshed, a new studio for Create Studios, the Cultural Heritage Institute for the Royal Agricultural University and the iCAST facility for the University of Bath.
Work is also continuing to refurbish the Health Hydro and improve the roads and underpasses in the area.
Your Comments
Be the first to comment on this article
Login or Register to post a comment on this article