A LANDMARK that towers above Swindon’s railway could be in for a face-lift.

Developers have submitted plans to renovate the 12-storey Signal Point tower above Swindon Railway Station.

The 9,500 square foot office block has been vacant for many years after its owners, Network Rail, moved to offices across Station Road.

Plans by the building’s current leaseholders, Narbeth Management, propose a radical overhaul of the tower. They want to create a massive three-storey height reception, cover it with new cladding, install a new heating system and double glazing. Previous planning applications have suggested converting it to flats, but the latest plans say it will remain as offices.

The distinctive red British Rail logo will stay remain at the top of the tower block.

 

Les Durrant, managing director of planning agents DPDS Consulting, said: “The proposed refurbishment will make significant improvements to the appearance of Signal Point and its modernisation will help to encourage business activity within the building and to the Swindon Station Arrival Quarter.

“It is hoped that this planning application will be received positively and be seen as good news for the town.”

The new development could form part of a landmark new arrival point to the town, Swindon Borough Council's Garry Perkins said: "It is really great news that growing investor confidence in the town is being reflected in physical regeneration.

 

“We have already identified the railway station and the area around it as a prime site for regeneration, creating a landmark arrival point into Swindon, delivering public realm, homes and employment. We are working with partners to assess the feasibility of such a scheme, but these discussions are at an early stage."

Yesterday, rail commuters backed the renovation works.

Chris Davis, 67, said: "I think this building is a disgrace. It just looks so shabby and horrible." But she said a renovated Signal Point should be turned into bedsit flats for younger people, rather than offices: ""We have so many empty offices."

Cyclist Phil, 47, looked at the building and said: "It's sad, it's really sad. In Swindon there's money, there's industry, there's business. This is the focal point."