SIGNAL Point will be renovated now that Network Rail has regained control of the building.

The rail operator has been trying to win back ownership of the looming landmark above Swindon's railway station which can now be spruced up as part of the town's regeneration strategy.

Network Rail took back ownership of Signal Point from Narbeth Management on August 10. 

Western route director Mike Gallop said: "We are excited that we can now start to plan how Signal Point and the land around it can be restored in line with plans that Swindon Borough Council have to regenerate the area.

"We will now work with the council to help develop Swindon station and the town as a whole.”

It is hoped that the building will become an 'iconic entrance' to Swindon and give visiting train passengers a good first impression of the town.

Councillor Dale Heenan said: “This is fantastic news and I think every resident and business will look forward to seeing this prominent office block back in use.

“I have been pushing hard behind the scenes for some time to get this landmark building sorted, and progress has been confidential so I am delighted Network Rail has finally made it happen.

“Signal Point is often visitors’ first view of Swindon, and this building is part of our jigsaw for the town centre. Piece by piece we are seeing progress.”

South Swindon MP Robert Buckland added: “Signal Point occupies an important gateway site in Swindon, and I am very pleased that Network Rail not only have taken back ownership but also have committed to improving Signal Point and the land around it, which will improve the appearance of this part of our town centre.

"I look forward to seeing swift progress.”

Adver readers welcomed the change and hoped to see the site transformed.

Jennie Fellowes said: "I used to work on the 10th floor of that building. It’s a great location and renovation will tidy it up which is very much needed."

Rachel Sellens said: "Good, that building is a scruffy eyesore."

Daniel Adams said: "Fantastic news and even better the hear that's its being saved. 
"Many may not like it but it's a iconic building for the town that has already lost to much of it heritage. Onwards and upwards."

The building's previous leaseholders were the developers Narberth Management.
In 2018, they submitted an application to add a massive three-storey height reception, cover it with new cladding, install a new heating system and double glazing, and set up a cafe on the ground floor.

These plans did not move forward.