WHILE news of a fresh consultation on the North Star redevelopment programme has been welcomed, a note of caution has been added by those waiting to see real work start.

After years of delays, developers say progress is finally being made to bring land around the Oasis Leisure Centre back to life.

Moirai Capital, which holds the lease on the land, has said the public will be able to comment on plans for a 200-metre indoor ski-slop, a 5,000-seat arena, a multi-screen cinema and 10-pin bowling alley next week.

The company, which also holds the lease to the Oasis, first said work might start last year but a number of problems have led to the project being pushed back.

However, Councillor Jim Robbins (Lab, Mannington and Western) says he wants to see a full application in before he gets too optimistic.

He said: “Obviously, this is a good thing and we all want to see the development go ahead because it will be great for Swindon.

“But we have been here before. In November 2012 there was another consultation and we have still to see an application go in. As it stands it is just plans on a piece of paper.”

Moriai have said the £200 million project is on again following changes to the initial plan and has signed up with partner companies to run the complex.

Martin Barber, Moirai chairman, said: “The very positive response by operators to the changes made to our plans means that we already have firm commitments for the vast majority of the available spaces. “The development will be at the heart of the community, and it is important that the public have their say on its development, so we are extremely keen to discuss our plans with them and to hear their suggestions and ideas.”

Following the delays, and the news many Swindon companies had lost money as a result of a shell company of Moirai going bust, there was pressure to have the lease cancelled.

But council chiefs stuck with company, although deadlines were imposed. Garry Perkins (Con, Haydon Wick), cabinet member for the economy, welcomed the news.

He said: “As many will already have seen, our plans include a state of the art snow facility with an up to 200-metre ski slope, including areas for learners and snow play and a 5,000 capacity music and exhibition arena.”

Consultations will be held at the Oasis on March 20 from 1pm to 8pm and March 21 from 3pm and 4pm.