THE borough council has revealed four potential sites for the new Great British Railways headquarters if its bid succeeds.
Signal Point, which sits right on top of the station and has been empty for years, was put back into Network Rail's ownership in 2020 and plans were announced to restore it.
Kimmerfields, the Tri-Centre office complex and the historic Carriage Works have also been put forward as options.
The town is likely to face stiff competition from the likes of Crewe, York, Darlington and Doncaster.
A shortlist of finalists from around the country will be announced in late spring and the public will have a say in the final outcome.
Here's what our reader had to say about it on social media...
Richard Howroyd: "Can see a new office being built by Zurich and any plans for a new theatre or music venue going up in smoke.
"Seriously I do support the bid but need to take a good look at what could be offered by competitors in Crewe Derby etc."
Joe Dixon: "Should use mechanics institute as a Head Office. Obviously will need a bigger space but what better than restoring GWR building with the budget."
Patrick Connolly: "Only problem with that, is the owner would need to agree."
Richard Stockdale: "Anyone who thinks that you could move in straight away into Signal Point is clearly delusional."
Tauben Tenty: "Signal point? It’s derelict."
Juan Thompson: "Maybe bang it in the derelict building sat above the train station. Place looks honking."
Chris Smith: "As a highly experienced Railway Professional I have been trying to contact someone who is part of the bidding team in order to offer my services.
"Unfortunately nobody seems to know anything about. Even the Local Councillor who is involved hasn't had the courtesty to reply.
" It doesn't bode well for Swindon's bid."
Sara Hayes: "Move them straight away into Signal Point. Just shows the competency of Swindon’s Councillors.
"Building has lacked proper maintenance for years.
"Will probably fail dismally on its EPC and is likely to be riddled with asbestos. Would cost thousands to bring it up to scratch.
"With just one access road which goes one way, minimal parking or reduce parking for rail users.
"Doesn’t make it practicable. Only thing going for it is it’s proximity to the railway line.
"As for the Tri-centre. If was any good, Zurich wouldn't be building a brand new office to move to.
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