THE council has said it will work closely with the Brunel Centre's owners on potential redevelopment proposals, following the announcement House of Fraser will close.

On Sunday, Sports Direct boss Mike Ashley, who paid £90m for House of Fraser in August, said Swindon's store would be among three to close in November after rent talks failed.

Following the announcement, Swindon Borough Council's lead member for the town centre, Dale Heenan, said: “It is disappointing that Swindon town centre will lose its House of Fraser store, but it reflects the changing face of Britain’s High Street.

“We will be working closely with [Brunel Centre owners] FI Real Estate Management on any future redevelopment proposals. We want to maintain a strong retail offer in the town centre and we are progressing a number of regeneration projects that will transform the heart of Swindon and result in millions of pounds of investment being spent over the coming years, so we continue to be an attractive place for investors and businesses alike."

It has been suggested the House of Fraser store could house Swindon Museum and Art Gallery. The museum failed to secure a multi-million pound lottery grant for modern building in the town centre.The Wharf Green store was among the sites mentioned ahead of an options appraisal process, looking at the future of any new home for the museum, which is currently based in Old Town.