Swindon Borough Council (SBC) is giving local people the chance to view and comment on plans for public realm improvements on Regent Street. Public exhibitions will be held at Unit 73 Regent Street (next to H&M) on Friday 30 October from 10am until 4pm, and on Saturday 31 October 2009 from 10am until 3.30pm.

Regent Street improvement works, which are due to commence in March 2010, will run from the new water feature being installed at Canal Walk right up to the edge of Regent Circus. Using the history of the area for inspiration, plans have been created which pay homage to the old trams that once travelled up and down the street with design features symbolising this traditional method of travel.

Further improvements will include interactive lighting, new street benches and trees and the removal of old trees and phone boxes to de-clutter the area and encourage full use of outdoor space.

Public realm plays an important role in the wider regeneration framework for Swindon, and this exhibition will give local people an opportunity to comment on plans. A ‘fly-through’ video will also be on show demonstrating what the new and improved Regent Street will look like by both day and night.

Councillor Phil Young, Lead Member for Regeneration, at Swindon Borough Council, commented: “Public spaces – those outdoor facilities that are used by shoppers, visitors, and workers every day – are essential elements in creating a distinctive and positive perception in any town centre. That is why improving public realm facilities in Swindon must play a key role in the delivery of its regeneration.

“Our vision is to create an attractive town centre and good quality public areas are key elements in achieving this. With Wharf Green completed and Canal Walk improvements well underway, Regent Street will be the next step to improving what Swindon has to offer.

“We are very keen to hear what people have to say – and that is the reason for holding these exhibitions. Local opinion is invaluable and we’d like to get feedback on these initial designs for Regent Street. I would encourage as many people as possible to attend the exhibitions.”

Regent Street improvement works are being project managed by The New Swindon Company and are part funded by the government’s Growth Point Funds, as well as additional funding from the South West Regional Development Agency.