HOPES are growing that a solution to bring the Mechanics Institute back to life can be found in the coming months.

The iconic town centre building has had a troubled history and has stood empty for many years, but plans are now under way to find a sustainable use for it.

Over the coming months an options appraisal will be carried out to examine the best uses for the crumbling building. These will be narrowed down before an application for Heritage Lottery money is made.

Early discussions with Heritage Lottery have indicated it would be willing to provide support if a long-term sustainable plan for the building can be developed.

The Mechanics’ Institution Trust has been working with Forward Swindon and councillors from both parties to move forward with the proposals.

Its chairman, Daniel Rose, believes this is the best opportunity there has been for a long time.

He said: “I would say I am cautiously optimistic. There is a sense we are all working in the same direction and I think that has not always been the case.

“There have been a few delays but within the new year we are hoping to have an options appraisal done. This will give us a number of options of possible uses.

"From there we will identify one we want to move forward with and then bring in a consultancy firm who will develop that so we can put a detailed plan to the Heritage Lottery.

“This is not a quick process but it is important we don’t rush things and get everything right. The Mechanics’ should play a key part in the town centre regeneration and the recent heritage consultation showed this to be the most important part of it.”

Among options is the trust’s plan to ensure the institute plays a key role in the local community.

“Our plans are well documented that we want community use and community ownership,” said Daniel. “We would like to see it become a hub for volunteer groups in Swindon.

“We also want to see a small independent cinema, several independent shops and an independent restaurant.

The restoration of the Mechanic’s Institute is a key priority of the town centre regeneration programme, which also includes the construction of a new museum.

Next month a bid is being put to the Heritage Lottery for funding for the museum but this will be separate to any work with the Mechanics’.

Councillor Garry Perkins (Con, Haydon Wick), the cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “If we are going to get Heritage Lottery money then we need to show we have a sustainable plan showing the Mechanics’ can make money and survive on its own.

“This will be completely separate to the Swindon museum bid so will not have any effect on it.”