Oasis Leisure Centre in Swindon to be Rebuilt This Year
2024-09-19 11:11- The Oasis Leisure Centre in Swindon is set to be rebuilt, with a planning application expected by the end of this year.
- The centre has been closed since October 2020 and has fallen into disrepair, prompting a new proposal to address ongoing issues.
- The reopening is targeted for 2026, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the centre's original opening.
Express your sentiment!
Insights
The Oasis Leisure Centre in Swindon, which inspired the name of the famous band, is set to undergo a significant transformation following years of neglect. The planning application for the rebuild is expected to be submitted by the end of this year, with hopes to reopen the centre by 2026, coinciding with its 50th anniversary. The previous refurbishment in 2016 failed to resolve ongoing issues, prompting the proposal to replace the dome panels with a new material designed for the American space program, while maintaining the original aesthetic. The project will also involve the demolition of the adjacent sports and concert venue, a decision that has sparked some controversy. The Save Oasis Swindon Campaign advocates for the inclusion of a sports facility in the new plans, reflecting the community's desire for a multifunctional space. The centre has been a local landmark since before the band’s formation in 1991, drawing crowds for various events and activities. The building has been closed since October 2020 due to its unviable condition, leading to its current derelict state, characterized by overgrown vegetation and graffiti. In May 2023, an agreement was reached between Seven Capital and the local council, allowing for the necessary renovations in exchange for the development of housing nearby. As the planning process unfolds, a new website has been launched to keep residents informed and gather feedback. This initiative aims to engage the community in the redevelopment process, ensuring that the new centre meets local needs and preserves the legacy of the original Oasis Leisure Centre.
Contexts
The Oasis Leisure Centre in Swindon is set to be rebuilt this year, reflecting ongoing developments in local infrastructure. In a related context, Dorcan Academy in Swindon has implemented a policy to lock most toilets during lesson times, allowing only one set to remain open. This decision was made to address the increased time lost during lessons due to frequent toilet visits, a situation exacerbated by the Covid pandemic. School leaders at Dorcan Academy report that this policy has contributed to a calmer environment within the school. However, it has also sparked concerns among some parents regarding the impact on students' rights and access to facilities during school hours. This situation highlights the broader challenges faced by educational institutions in balancing student needs with operational efficiency in the wake of the pandemic. The rebuilding of the Oasis Leisure Centre may also reflect a community response to changing needs and priorities in Swindon, as local facilities adapt to post-pandemic realities. The developments at both the leisure centre and the school illustrate the ongoing adjustments communities are making in response to the lasting effects of Covid-19.
