The first phase of Swindon's £350 million regeneration of Union Square is to start in the spring following the approval of plans to progress the scheme.

Swindon Borough Council's planning committee have approved a planning application by Muse Developments and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) to deliver the first stage of the project. Forward Swindon, the company responsible for economic growth and development in the borough, has facilitated the scheme on behalf of the council.

Councillors approved plans for one residential building comprising of 45 assisted living apartments and a high-quality 850 space multi-storey car park. The apartments will be operated by Westlea Housing, part of GreenSquare Group, and the car park will be managed by the council when complete.

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Doug Finlay Development Director at Muse, said: "This approval is a significant milestone for the project and will ensure a start on site in the late spring. The total build cost for this first phase is around £25m, which will bring much needed investment into the town."

Peter Jones, HCA Head of Area, added: "This is a great result for the project and the regeneration of Swindon town centre. Now that planning permission has been achieved, the more visible work which will bring tangible benefits in the form of employment and investment in the town centre can start. Coming at a challenging time for the economy, I am sure this news will be welcome by people in Swindon."

Muse Developments is a national developer with revenue of more than over £2bn, which operates through five divisions of construction and infrastructure, affordable housing, fit out, urban regeneration and investments. Forward Swindon is responsible for regeneration, economic growth and cultural development in the borough.

(CD/GK)