Swindon & Wiltshire News
Work begins on transformation of former Swindon museum
Work has officially started on the redevelopment of Apsley House in Swindon’s Old Town marking a major step forward in bringing the former museum and art gallery back into active use after six years standing empty.
Property developer Arthur Dallimer, founder of William Arthur Property, is now on site delivering his vision to rescue and reimagine the Grade II listed building on Bath Road.
The scheme will create a flagship destination combining food, work and social space, contributing to the ongoing regeneration of Old Town.
The plans include an exceptional artisan bakery, a vibrant co-working space for local businesses and sole traders, and the creation of a high-quality restaurant or bar within the former gallery space.
Upgrades will also be carried out to several retail units on Victoria Road, which form part of the wider Apsley House site.
“This building will become the flagship destination in Old Town, Swindon. We’re creating something genuinely special, with an exceptional artisan bakery and a vibrant, modern co-working space already committed to the scheme,” said Arthur.
“We’re now calling for an ambitious restaurateur or bar operator to take on the remaining space. We’re looking for a high-quality, design-led restaurant or bar that shares our vision and can bring fresh energy, creativity and vibrancy to the area.”
Swindon Borough Council has worked closely with Arthur to ensure the development protects and enhances the building’s heritage while allowing for modern and commercially sustainable uses.
Apsley House was built around 1830 and has played a significant role in Swindon’s cultural history, most recently as the town’s museum and art gallery. Now external works will begin to the property
Councillor Jim Robbins, leader of the Swindon Council, said: “Apsley House is one of Old Town’s most recognisable and much-loved buildings and it was fantastic to receive a tour from Arthur who explained how it will shortly be brought back to life.
“When we agreed the sale, the intention was always to see the building restored and contributing to the local economy again and it is exciting to see the plans moving forwards.
“A development of this scale will really strengthen Old Town’s offer, attract new visitors and support local jobs. It’s great to see more significant investment being made in such a prominent part of Swindon.”
Arthur Dallimer (30) is a Swindon-born entrepreneur who bought and sold his first property at the age of 18.
Through William Arthur Property, he specialises in commercial and residential developments across Swindon, Wiltshire and Bristol, with a focus on breathing new life into underused and heritage buildings.
Pictured: Cllr Chris Watts, Cllr Neil Hopkins, Cllr Nadine Watts, Arthur Dallimer, Cllr Jim Robbins, and Cllr Kevin Small inside Apsley House. Photograph by Neil Moore of Moore Photographics
