The Cricketers Reopens.
So yesterday marked the official reopening of the Cricketers, erstwhile Cricketer’s Arms, in our lovely GWR railway village. And what a lovely event it was too. It’s never not nice to see another piece of Swindon’s heritage being brought back to life. All thanks and kudos to the team at Swindon Heritage Preservation Trust who’ve worked so darn hard for a long time now to make it happen, headed by Chair, Bob Wright.
And, despite what you might read on Facebook, far from ALL Swindon’s heritage buildings have disappeared. Some have yes – as is true of EVERY town and city in the land. But we DO still have plenty. I could sit here and now and produce a list off the top of my head but that would be a massive digression so I won’t. I will though just echo the words of the mayor:
Keeping Swindon’s heritage alive is so important to our identity, and it is heartening to know there are already plans to continue this fantastic work across the area …
… constructed in the mid-1840s and serving as a public house since 1859, it has worn many hats over the decades. Seeing its doors open once again after such extensive restoration is a proud moment for our town’s heritage.
Photo credit Jason Spickett
Swindon from the Air
The building first became a public house in 1858 and entertained hundreds of railway workers every day. And yesterday the bar was again full of people although no alcohol was available – more is the pity as I could have happily sunk a pint!
Also in attendance was Madam Mayor, Fay Howard, who gave a congratulatory speech. Also joining the celebrations were the leader of SBC Jim Robbins and Cllr Marina Strinkovsky.
The work so far
So this former public house and Grade II listed building has undergone a complete refurbishment of its ground floor rooms, including the inclusion of a professional catering kitchen. Though more work needs doing the renovate the upper floors this phase is now complete. And tremendous it is.
The completed areas will be used as community spaces, teaching areas and event rooms. But, as mentioned above, the work isn’t finished. More floors are in need of renovation and are destined to become further areas for public use along with tenant accommodation. So everyone will plough on!
How it was funded and the vision
Making this transformation possible was vital funding from Historic England and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. Also the Heritage Lottery Fund.
SHP have an inspiring vision for the place. The plans include liveable accommodation and enhanced community facilities. Thus ensuring the building remains a functional part of the neighbourhood.
The Cricketers lounge is already available for bookings. And the goal is for the venue to host everything from private events to vital community projects.
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