Local developer Arthur Dallimer has received messages of support and praise from members of the Swindon public, in response to his released plans for the Apsley House site.
Arthur Dallimer, a local developer born in Swindon is said to have received over 100 messages of support from business groups, local residents and community groups with a vested interest in the future of the site that was previously Swindon's Museum and Art Gallery.
Mr Dallimer last week released images and visuals of what he would do with the former museum on a website apsleycorner.com and asked Swindon people for feedback, and to show their support for the scheme.
Arthur said: “The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with businesses and the community wanting the property as a series of commercial units for everyone to benefit from. I am so pleased it has been received so warmly and I welcome more views from all areas of the community.”
The local developer's plans would see the listed 1830’s main building converted into a shop and cafe on the ground floor, and a co-working space akin to We-Work on the top floor.
Arthur's plan would involve the 1960’s extension on the right of the building being converted into a 90 seater restaurant wrapped in a glass fronted facade with wooden slats.
He added: “I was inspired by the RWA building in Bristol and their beautiful conversion of a listed building, and wanted to do something with Apsley House once I knew that it could no longer be maintained under council ownership.”
Paddy Bradley MBE who is chair of business group 'Switch on to Swindon’ said: “Our organisation is run by a group of businesses who are committed to bringing people and other businesses to Swindon.
"The building has had a significant role in Swindon’s society, housing great Swindon memorabilia and one of the best 20th Century Art Collections in the country. Now it needs a new purpose and a new lease of life, which your concept will provide and add value to the immediate Old Town environment and the wider Swindon economy.”
Estate agent Richard James added: "A great use of the former museum that will bring some life, style, and attention to a beautiful and under-used building. I’d like to think Swindon Borough Council (SBC) will recognise the longer term value this brings to the town and the community.
"Investment and confident design like this encourages others to follow. The town centre remains challenging but Old Town has a great business community and some momentum. Let’s hope SBC recognise and support this rather than obstruct.”
The potential bidders for the building must submit their plans and offer this week before Swindon Borough Council decide to whom to award the sale.
One of the factors that may be important, other than price, is the Swindon Borough Council Estates’ Strategy approved by the cabinet two weeks ago which said 'properties would be considered for sale where other significant social economic or environmental benefits are realised in addition to the sale price.'
Local resident Kenna Leigh said: "This would be a stunning addition to Old Town. We can’t have another historical building go to waste in this town. Creating a commercial space will only add to the quality of life in the area, create job opportunities, and a sense of community. I really hope Swindon council listen to the people of Swindon and push for this.”
Swindon Borough Council are said to be faced with a large budget deficit of approximately £36m. Expressed local concerns are that Apsley House will be sold above market rate to a flats developer. Mr Dallimer says that he hopes Swindon Borough Council however, will see the long term value in his design.
Local resident Janet Johnson added: "as a local resident I am in full support of this scheme. Simply awarding the sale to the highest bidder completely ignores the enormous benefit this development would bring to the local area and local economy.
"We must invest in keeping the spirit of our town alive and in supporting local business and, in this instance, the investment would be in choosing the right developer over the highest bidder. Turning the site into flats simply dilutes the area and gives people even less reason to visit the area and in turn support local businesses. Common sense must prevail here.”
Those interested can view plans and add comments of support on www.apsleycorner.com
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