Proposals to build a new arena on the existing site of the Abbey Stadium were announced yesterday.

Plans for a new stadium, home to both the Swindon Robins speedway team and greyhound racing, have faced continual setbacks since first being announced in 2015.

Gaming International Ltd, who own the stadium, have submitted a reserved matters application, and say that, if it is approved, they aim to have the initial stages of the work completed as early as May.

Gaming International chairman Clarke Osborne said: “We are now over 12 months behind schedule, and the reason for that is that we have had a lot of design problems – quite fundamental ones, with regards to site drainage.

“But out of this has actually come a far superior design and location, which we’re all very pleased about.”

Gaming International said the opportunity to retain the location of the stadium had come about because of the redesign of the Abbeymeads scheme.

Under the proposals, the whole stadium will be replaced, with only the racing surfaces partially retained. Both the speedway and greyhound tracks will be shortened, and new lighting and a safety fence will be installed.

The entire complex would be surrounded by a 3.5m-tall wooden and landscaped noise attenuation and security fence, designed to minimise the impact on surrounding residents.

The existing grandstand would go, replaced by a two-level building designed to accommodate more than 700 and a viewing balcony.

Much of the new facility is already built, with modular buildings stored in the car park waiting to be assembled.

Justin Tomlinson, the MP for North Swindon, said: “I have worked tirelessly since 2008 to bring forward the new stadium, vital both for the supporters and for the local community.

“We have all been frustrated by delays, but these revised plans will allow the work to commence delivering both a first-class stadium and enhanced facilities for the local area.

“This is exceptionally important for our town, especially in recognition of the Swindon Robins being champions.

“These revised plans have also allowed us to secure enhanced landscaping, new perimeter fencing and to make sure the facilities are of the highest quality.”