REGENERATION work for Swindon's historic Health Hydro has been given the green light.

Swindon Borough Council put together a business case with Historic England to persuade central government to approve the ambitious £6.5 million project which would give the iconic Milton Road facility a new lease of life.

In January, the council appointed specialist advisors to help make their case as strong as possible and it was submitted in March.

This approval has now been given, so the local authority can begin drawing up more detailed plans of how to modernise the health centre while still retaining its original structure.

These plans include the fixing of long-overdue maintenance issues, updates to the facilities and the restoration of important historical features.

The main pool and the main entrance on Faringdon Road would be refurbished and there will be improvements to the Turkish baths, the changing facilities and the gym space.

A Swindon Borough Council spokesman said: "Planning work can begin to bring this incredible piece of heritage back to its glory.

"The work will take time, and this is only phase one of the project, but we’re determined to make this a leisure centre for everyone to enjoy for years to come."

The revamp will be paid for using money from the government's Towns Fund. The Health Hydro is part of the Heritage Action Zone initiative offered by Historic England.

Council leader David Renard said: "​I’m glad to see funding approved to regenerate this iconic and historic building in the town centre.

“We’re proud of Swindon’s heritage and we’re determined to help preserve it where possible and make sure it is fit for use for future generations.

“This is just the first phase of works for the Health Hydro and I can’t wait to see it get underway."

There are several other major projects and new additions being worked on around the town centre which aim to breathe new life into the area and make it a more welcoming place for neighbours and visitors alike.

These include the ongoing Fleming Way bus boulevard transformation, the Wharf Green markets, the new Premier Inn on the former site of Aspen House, and upgrades to the Brunel’s Carriage Works near the train station.

To keep up to date with the Health Hydro project and others in progress around the town centre, visit www.swindon.gov.uk/towncentreregeneration