The investment was confirmed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves and will support the development of a 2,000-capacity venue on the former bus station site on Fleming Way.
The project forms part of Swindon Borough Council’s wider Heart of Swindon regeneration plans and will sit within the Kimmerfields development area.
Councillors say the new building will replace the Wyvern Theatre, which is nearing the end of its operational life and is no longer large enough to meet demand.
Plans show a flexible performance space capable of accommodating around 2,000 people standing or 1,200 seated. It will also include a fly tower to host national touring theatre productions alongside concerts, comedy, esports and digital events.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said:
“Backing Swindon with this £20 million investment is part of my economic plan to build a stronger and more secure economy.
“The new entertainment venue that will be built with this funding will make the town a more attractive place to live, work and start a business in the years to come.”
The funding will be provided through the government’s Growth Mission Fund, aimed at supporting regeneration and economic growth.
Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said:
“This funding from the government is massive for Swindon. This administration promised the delivery of a new theatre to kickstart growth in our Heart of Swindon vision and today we are delivering on that promise.
“The entertainment venue sends a really clear message to investors that Swindon is on the up and now is the time for them to invest.”
The council confirmed the Wyvern Theatre will remain open until the new venue is completed to ensure continuity for productions and touring shows.
The site is close to the recently upgraded Fleming Way and the Zurich offices.
Heidi Alexander said:
“Swindon is a town with such enormous potential but we are in desperate need of a revitalised and rejuvenated town centre.
“So many people are utterly fed up with the empty shops, run down car parks and lack of decent places to go.
“I honestly believe that this funding is a vote of confidence in the ambitious plans of Labour-run Swindon Borough Council for town centre regeneration.”
She added:
“The work on Fleming Way set the standard for new public realm in the town centre and it’s great to have secured this funding to support development on the now vacant old bus station site.”
Will Stone said:
“This project really highlights Labour’s vision for Swindon, replacing one of the eyesores of our town, the old bus station, with a state-of-the-art entertainment venue.
“I love the Wyvern and have been there several times to support their shows and talent, but now I believe it’s time for Swindon to go one step further and deliver a venue for artists to present to larger crowds and run bigger shows.”
He added:
“The government’s £20 million investment in this entertainment venue will not only attract more higher profile talent, it will also act as a catalyst for growth, transforming the town centre, supporting local bars and restaurants, and growing the local economy.”
The government’s £20 million will be match-funded by Swindon Borough Council, which plans to invest a further £20 million into the scheme.
Council officials believe the project could also attract around £5 million in sponsorship and additional funding. They say future income generated by the venue will help service the council’s contribution.
Detailed designs and construction timescales are expected to be confirmed as the project progresses.
Its in the wrong place. Needs to be closer to restaurants and pubs.