A STALLED Swindon regeneration venture is expected to be given a boost this week.

Two schemes are on the table for a site in Marlowe Avenue, Walcot.

One involves a set of shops and another includes a housing element.

Marlowe Avenue was identified in 2002 as a key area for regeneration but little progress has been made.

A developer had been chosen to build shops and housing on a site opposite Greenbridge industrial estate, but the economic downturn caused them to pull out.

At tomorrow evening’s cabinet meeting councillors will decide between two schemes – both of which would be funded from council coffers.

The first, at a cost of £925,000, is to develop four commercial units – for local and national traders. The second includes the commercial units but includes four flats, which are likely to be set aside for social housing.

Ward councillor Mavis Childs said: “I think it is exactly what this area needs and deserves. Cavendish Square has been done up three times now and Marlowe Avenue has got nothing – so I’m very pleased that they are going ahead with it.

“The people of Walcot know they have never had anything and they know things need to be done round here.

“I believe that if you give people something that is inferior then that is what they will feel they are worth. Give them surroundings that are better than that and they will feel they are worth something.”

Coun Childs said she was pleased that the credit crunch had not derailed the project.

She said: “I went to the council and suggested that it would be a good idea to go to a housing association so that we can get this off the ground and also get more social housing. I am very pleased that this seems to be coming together.”

Estimates from the council show that rental income would recoup the council’s money within about 13 years.

Coun Nick Martin, lead member for property, leisure and recreation, admitted that the current climate had not made the project easy but stressed it was important to push forward.

He said: “In the East Walcot area there is a clear need for more shops for the community.

“I am confident that we would be able to fill those shops easily.

“Even if the market is difficult at the moment this is a project that will benefit the area and benefit Swindon.”