WORK to redevelop a historic town centre building will begin later this month.

The block on the corner of Faringdon Road and Catherine Street is to be turned into eight flats and two shops.

The council’s regeneration agency, Forward Swindon, have handed a £600,000 contract to Swindon-based SAS Build Ltd to complete the conversion work.

Coun Garry Perkins, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “The refurbishment of these two properties are just a small part of our plans to improve the link between the Great Western Works railway heritage quarter with the town centre.”

Work on the building, which is known as Faringdon Buildings, will start later this month and should be complete by early 2018.

The building is to be converted into eight new studio and two-bedroom apartments, as well as two shops each over 1,000 sq ft.

The historic site would be restored to “reflect the period of the building”, Forward Swindon said.

Coun Perkins added: “This will really help improve the look of this area of town and improve the retail choice.”

Nick Underwood, managing director of SAS Build Limited, said: “We are excited to be involved in such an important project for the town and are looking forward to working with Forward Swindon on the development.

“As a resident of Swindon I have driven past the building many times and have admired its period features, we now have the opportunity to bring them back to their original condition for all to enjoy in the future.”