Apsley House: Major works begin to restore former museum and art gallery

Work has begun on Apsley House in Old Town, Swindon, a Grade II-listed former museum and art gallery that has been empty since 2020; the developer plans an artisan bakery, co-working spaces and a restaurant or bar, and the council says the project will protect the building's heritage.

Apsley House in Old Town, Swindon, has begun a programme of major works to bring the Grade II-listed Regency villa back into use. The building last served as the town's museum and art gallery and has stood empty since it closed at the start of the 2020 lockdowns. Developer Arthur Dallimer of William Arthur Property plans to create an artisan bakery, co-working spaces for local businesses and a high-quality restaurant or bar. Swindon Borough Council says it worked closely with the developer to protect and enhance the building's heritage. Key details: - Location: Apsley House sits on the corner of Bath Road and Victoria Road in central Swindon. - Age and status: Built around 1830 and designated a Grade II-listed Regency villa. - Vacancy: It has been unused since the museum and gallery closed in early 2020. - Planned uses: The developer intends an artisan bakery, co-working spaces and a high-quality restaurant or bar. - Retail upgrades: Upgrades will be carried out to several retail units on Victoria Road that form part of the wider site. - Council view: Swindon Borough Council said the development will protect and enhance the building's heritage and contribute to the local economy. Summary: The works mark a major step in returning a prominent heritage building to active use in Old Town. The council said the project will strengthen the area's offer, attract visitors and support local jobs. The developer has secured commitments for an artisan bakery and a co-working space and is seeking an operator for the remaining hospitality space. Construction and upgrades to adjacent retail units are underway.