The Grade I listed mansion, located within Lydiard Park, is being refurbished to provide teaching facilities for around 120 students and staff from The Park Academies Trust Sixth Form.
The first students are expected to begin using the new facilities in 2027, following the approval of planning permission earlier this year.
Rooms on the first floor of the Swindon Borough Council-owned property are being adapted for educational use, with work being carried out to protect the building’s historic features.
The project is also expected to generate additional income to support the long-term maintenance of the mansion, which was once home to the St John family.
Councillor Matty Courtliff, Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, recently visited the site alongside Councillor Kate Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Children and Education.
They were joined by Year 11 pupils and staff from Lydiard Park Academy, who were given an opportunity to see the refurbishment taking place.
Councillor Courtliff, who had previously expressed concerns about the impact of the proposals on the historic building, said:
“Having previously raised concerns about the impact on Lydiard House, I’m pleased the work that is underway is being managed sensitively to safeguard such an important heritage asset.
“Visiting the site and listening to staff and students from Lydiard Park Academy, their excitement about learning here next year really brought home the impact this project will have and provided reassurance that this unique historic environment will be appreciated and cared for.
“This investment demonstrates how we can adapt and provide a sustainable future for our historic buildings while preserving their character and ensuring they continue to benefit the community.”
Despite the conversion, Lydiard House will remain a heritage attraction, with museum events and exhibitions continuing in its historic state rooms.
The new teaching spaces will complement the existing sixth form facilities at Lydiard Park Academy rather than replace them.
Councillor Tomlinson said:
“This project represents a significant investment in the future of young people in Swindon.
“Students will have the opportunity to learn in a truly unique environment that combines outstanding educational facilities with the rich history of one of our borough’s most iconic buildings.
“It was wonderful to visit the House with students and see first-hand how work is progressing. Their enthusiasm for the project shows just how special this opportunity is, and I know the new facilities will provide an inspiring environment in which they can learn, grow and achieve their potential.”
Joshua Coulson, Principal of Lydiard Park Academy, also welcomed the development.
He said:
“We are delighted that students from The Park Academies Trust Sixth Form will have the opportunity to learn in such a unique setting.
“Complementing our existing Sixth Form provision at Lydiard Park Academy, the facilities at Lydiard House will provide an inspiring environment where young people can develop academically and socially.
“It is wonderful to see this historic building being used to support the education of future generations, creating opportunities for students while strengthening its role at the heart of the local community.”
The scheme strengthens existing links between Lydiard Park Academy, St Mary’s Church, Lydiard House Museum and the wider estate. Swindon Borough Council purchased Lydiard House in 1943, intending to use the estate for education, youth services, recreation and community activities.
More than 80 years later, part of the historic mansion is being brought into educational use while its heritage and public attractions are preserved.
