Carriage Works building being transformed into University of Bath hub

The £11 million regeneration scheme in the Grade 2 listed building has moved into its second phase, which will see the West Shed on London Street converted into modern work spaces.

One of the largest areas will be occupied by the Innovation Centre for Applied Sustainable Technologies, a research and development centre based in Bath.

The iCAST conducts research into manufacturing and engineering materials, bio-based feedstock, biodegradable circular plastics, and other sustainable technologies.

Work to create the new facility is expected to be finished in six months' time. Four other units for commercial use are being developed for the 20,000 sq ft project.

Ingleton Wood has been appointed to provide mechanical and electrical services for this phase.

Director of building services engineering, Peter Webb, said: “We are excited to be supporting such a significant and ambitious regeneration scheme.

“The project will create a state-of-the-art research facility to help expand the scope and scale of the sustainability work carried out by the University of Bath. We are undertaking vital conservation work to the iconic 19th century railway sheds.

“With our experience of delivering considered and appropriate designs to help to save at-risk buildings, we are confident of not only preserving the legacy of Brunel but bringing this beautiful early Victorian-era industrial facility back into purposeful modern use.”

Phase 2 is being funded by a £4 million grant from the government’s Getting Building Fund.

The iCAST's director, Matthew Davidson, said: “It is fantastic for us to have a dedicated facility at the Carriage Works in Swindon. It is an iconic and historic building in which to be located.

“We already have over 50 companies as part of iCAST and we hope the joint industry projects that we are developing with them will help bring industry back to the Carriage Works.”

Bailey Partnership is providing lead consultant services including project management, quantity surveying and principal designer services.

Shaun Wells-Burr said: “It is great to bring the listed railway sheds back into use and support Swindon in its ambition to create a modern educational hub while honouring its historical heritage."

Metropolitan Workshop has been appointed as the architects. Perega is providing structural engineering services.

Ingleton Wood has abeen appointed to provide services for Phase 3 work in which the East Shed will provide around 60,000 sq ft of workspace for a mix of businesses.