The state of Swindon town centre is mocked by residents on a daily basis, but could flowers cheer it up and attach more visitors?
Coffee bars and charity shops are aplenty, but the area lacks any real attraction – with big brands closing up shop all too often.
Swindon Borough Council has introduced 31 planters across the town centre as part of a post-COVID-19 recovery plan.
But locals say the area has been substandard way before the pandemic, criticising the council for high rental prices and extortionate rates.
Talking to Wiltshire 999s Simon Jones, 41, said: “It’s unbelievable really. The centre of town is an eyesore, there are no decent shops and in some areas, you have to hold your nose due to the appalling stench coming from the bins.
“And how long will it be before we see a police appeal saying ‘witnesses to planter vandalism wanted’. They won’t last five minutes, they’ll be vandalised by tomorrow.
“It’s time the council lowest its ridiculous business rates and rents and filled the place full of independent stores, then you’d see people coming to Swindon.”
Another local resident, who didn’t wish to be named, said: “Flowers aren’t going to attract anyone to the town. They have to want to visit in the first place but at the moment, everyone I know goes to Bristol or Bath for a proper shopping trip.”
The council say they partnered with town centre landlords, inSwindon BID, The Parade and The Brunel to get the planters installed.
A spokesperson added: “In total, 31 new planters have been installed in order to create a more colourful environment and make it more welcoming to visitors.
“We look forward to seeing the planters come to life each summer and contribute to making the area more pleasant for both shoppers and workers.”
