Oasis centre plan in doubt despite rebuild approval

The leisure centre with its domed roof is rumoured to have inspired the naming of Britpop band Oasis

Shouts of "shame" rang out from members of the public as councillors approved plans to rebuild a leisure centre but without a sports hall.

The Oasis, famous for its lagoon pool under a domed roof, opened in 1976 but has been closed since 2020.

Developer and landlord Seven Capital wanted to renovate the leisure centre and demolish its sports hall and use the space to build 700 flats, but Swindon Borough Council's planning committee refused permission for the flats.

Damien Siviter, group managing director at Seven Capital, said: "We're in a position now where we have to consider the viability of the whole scheme."

Mr Siviter said it would consider the viability of the whole scheme and "whether that means the Oasis may never come back into economic use, I don't know".

"We're back to the drawing board," he said.

It was apparent that most of the public attending were opposed to the plans submitted by the centre's de facto owner and leaseholder, Seven Capital, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The owner's proposals, which had been recommended by planning officers for approval, would see the listed dome and pool kept, the sports hall demolished and a new "dry side" built, including a café, gym, an indoor crazy golf course and a ten-pin bowling alley.

The loss of the sports hall, which had also been used as a concert venue, was the sticking point for the protesters and some councillors.

The Oasis had fallen into a state of disrepair having never reopened after the Covid lockdowns

Councillor Sudha Sri Nukana drew loud applause when she spoke against the proposal.

"It's hard to see what we will have to celebrate on the 50th anniversary – that makes people sad and angry. Do the right thing and refuse this application," she said.

Steve Handley from Seven Capital said they had amended their plans after an extensive public consultation.

"We can bring back to life the Oasis to benefit the community and Swindon," he said.

The renovated site will see the listed dome and pool kept and the sports hall demolished

Opposition also came from the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust, Swindon Pickleball Club, and the Save Oasis Swindon campaign.

Councillors Kevin Small, Emma Bushell and Marina Strinkovsky spoke in favour of the proposals.

The council's decision to approve the plans now offers the faintest hopes that the centre might be open at some point in 2026.