OASIS: future of the iconic Leisure Centre takes another twist
Swindon Borough Council says an application to get the site 'listed' could scupper its plans
Last updated 16th Mar 2021
A CGI image of what the Oasis Leisure Centre could look like, if a multi-million pound upgrade comes to fruition, has been released.
The futuristic proposal shows the historic site being converted into what Swindon Borough Council calls a "regional waterpark facility".
The local authority is working alongside the Oasis leaseholder, SevenCapital, in an attempt to secure the Leisure Centre's future for decades to come.
However, the Council claims that an application to Historic England to grant the site 'listed' status could scupper those plans.
The identity of the individual who made the inquiry has not yet been revealed.
A resolution has been needed since November 2020, when the firm running the Oasis at the time announced that it would not be re-opening the site after lockdown.
'We are doing all we can to give the Oasis a sustainable future'
Councillor David Renard, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “I would like to assure residents we are doing all we can to give the Oasis a sustainable future because it is an iconic leisure venue and has brought so much joy to local residents and visitors alike over the past four decades.
“However, its age is part of the problem as it needs many millions of pounds spent on it to modernise it.
“This CGI image shows how the Oasis could be brought right back up to date and attract people from far and wide into our town. All that will be in vain if this listing application is successful.
“We have made joint representations with SevenCapital to Historic England to ensure the modernisation of the Oasis can take place, so future generations can continue to enjoy it for many years to come".
'Should it become listed, the very thing that intends to save the Oasis will become the reason for its permanent demise'
SevenCapital added: “We are deeply committed to coming up with a resolution and long-term viable solution for the Oasis.
“The biggest threat at present to this is the potential for its listing, following an application to Historic England. The reason for this is that the centre needs considerable work and investment.
“Should it become listed then, unfortunately, the very thing that intends to save the Oasis will actually become the reason for its permanent demise as it would prevent the necessary works being carried out".
Campaigners' Response
The proposals have come under fire from opposition councillors and 'Save Oasis' campaigners on social media.
One of the activists has described the CGI image as an "embarrassment" and "eyesore", as it doesn't appear to include some of the original Oasis features. This includes the notorious dome.
Furthermore, the campaign group argues that the listing application shouldn't be "seen as a threat" to renovating the Leisure Centre, highlighting the outcome of Robert Buckland's discussions with Historic England regarding the Oasis last month.
The South Swindon MP said: "I have been reassured by Historic England that if this decision (listing the Oasis) is reached, they will work with me and any developer to make sure that a renovation can happen".
His full statement can be seen below:
'The listing application should not be a barrier to progress'
Save Oasis added: "It is about time we protected our landmarks in Swindon from a continuing trend of abandonment. The listing application should not be a barrier to progress.
"The Oasis is an iconic building, and maybe now is the time that it got the appreciation and protection that it deserves.
"Historic England have also confirmed to us publicly, maintenance can still be carried out on the site, even whilst the listing application is ongoing".