Swindon tech hub gets go-ahead for Nationwide

Permission is granted for one of Swindon's major employers to expand its tech centre

One of Swindon's biggest employers has been given the go-ahead to expand part of its critical infrastructure.

Swindon Borough Council has approved plans for Nationwide Building Society to extend its tech data hub in Hillmead Drive.

Nationwide will now be able to extend its existing space at Swindon Technology Centre.

Data centres house the servers used by companies with a large online presence such as Nationwide.

The building society's online banking system is used by customers worldwide to make money transfers.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said the company intended to convert the deliveries bay into a plant area at ground level two, and extend the gantry on the roof level.

A containment route will go through an existing opening in the side wall at ground level.

The council planning report said the additional plant would be in keeping with what was already in place.

In addition, extensive tree planting and landscaping meant the development would "not materially impact on the wider character of the area".