The Swindon Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) was launched in June 2019, as an ambitious five-year plan to revitalise the town’s unique railway heritage.
The HAZ is a partnership between Historic England, Swindon Borough Council and other organisations, including the Mechanics Institution Trust and South Swindon Parish Council. The Mechanics’ Institution Trust works closely with Heritage Action Zone officers and Stakeholders to advise, support and deliver elements of the HAZ projects.
In 2022, the HAZ was rebranded ‘TheWorks’ following a consultation with local residents and organisations.
TheWorks does not seek to rename the Railway Village, or other areas, but is a name that encompasses the town’s historic railway quarter both north and south of the railtrack and includes the Railway Village and Health Hydro, STEAM Museum and the Swindon Designer Outlet.
It will be used to promote the former HAZ area and Swindon town centre as a destination and place of historical interest once the Heritage Action Zone ends next year (2024). You will see on new street signage to be delivered through the HAZ.
In September 2023, CBA Studios worked with HAZ partners to produce an Interpretation Strategy, to help create and promote a coherent narrative of Swindon’s social history connected to its railway heritage. This Interpretation Strategy aims to enable partners to develop a compelling and engaging
interpretive offer that pays tribute to Swindon’s railway heritage and its people.
For more information, please visit the Swindon Borough Council website or contact Karen Phimister, Heritage Action Zone Project Officer: kphimister@swindon.gov.uk.
To read more about other HAZ projects:
