'Time running out' to replace Wyvern Theatre

The theatre is nearing the end of its working life

The leader of Swindon Borough Council has said there is not much time left to replace the ageing Wyvern Theatre.

Jim Robbins, leader of the Labour-controlled authority, told BBC Wiltshire: "It is coming towards the end of its life, it would be unthinkable for a town Swindon's size to not have a theatre.

"We need to do the work now to make sure we have a seamless transition."

Labour leaders said construction for replacing the building erected in 1971 would start in March 2026.

The pledges have been made by Swindon Borough Council, which has released a three-year plan to improve the town.

They have promised to publish a plan for a much larger entertainment venue soon.

Mr Robbins said: "There isn't a date when the theatre won't be viable, but we're on a year-by-year contract with the operator now.

"Everyone is concerned about the state of the building and there's issues with the concrete."

Mr Robbins said a replacement theatre needed to be built soon

But plans have been criticised by opposition Conservative councillors.

Gary Sumner said: "I am concerned the council will sell off assets in order to fund this entertainment venue, and they aren't necessarily pots of gold.

"I'm really concerned that it's becoming an obsession."

Mr Robbins said he believed a replacement venue could work if consideration was given to how the space was used.

"Experts we have spoken to says it needs to be bigger to attract bigger acts.

"There are lots of ways to make the venue pay. It's all about flexible spaces and lots of emphasis on the food and drink," he said.