A PROPERTY developer from Swindon has big plans for the former home of the town’s museum and art gallery.
Arthur Dallimer has worked on more than 20 projects around Wiltshire and Bristol, and is now hoping to buy and restore Apsley House.
His proposal would turn part of Devizes Road and Victoria Road into a commercial development with five refurbished retail units, a large restaurant, a café, and a co-work office space.
Developers have until January 5 to put their offers and development plans to Swindon Borough Council. The local authority will then pick their preferred buyer.
Mr Dallimer said: “As a child, I visited Apsley House when it was the museum and art gallery, and it has always held a special place in my heart.
“When I heard the borough council could no longer afford to maintain it, and South Swindon Parish Council couldn’t afford to buy it, I began creating a commercial plan to restore the beautiful main building and enhance the 60s extension to become a successful commercial development.
“If I am successful in purchasing the property, I want to choose a set of independent businesses to operate out of Apsley Corner to help grow Old Town business and the local community.
“Although the borough council want to raise as much money as possible from the sale of the property, that should not be the only consideration.
“Apsley House is recognised as an asset of community value, and my development solution gives a significant opportunity for multiple operators to enhance the business mix in Old Town and have a positive economic benefit to the whole area."
The Grade 2 listed building was built in the 1830s, initially used as a residence, then turned into a museum and art gallery.
As part of the Apsley Corner proposals, its extension will be changed from a concrete facade to a glass front and wooden slats looking into the main restaurant.
Old Town Business Association vice chair Kris Talikowski said: “We fully support the Apsley Corner development for Old Town.
“We need more commercial units in Old Town as demand constantly exceeds supply.
“The development Arthur is proposing is clearly high value and a significantly iconic development that has a great mix of retail, food and beverage, and co-work space which is exciting for potential operators.
“This development could become a landmark site whilst restoring a beautiful Old Town heritage asset into commercial use.”
For more information, visit www.apsleycorner.com
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