THE town centre has bounced back well from the pandemic's lockdowns and restrictions, according to the council.

The local authority's Facebook page highlighted how neglected parts of the shopping hub have changed over the last 18 months.

Shuttered shops have been replaced by new arrivals, including the new Korean restaurant Bao on Havelock Street, the new Taco Bell branch in Game's former Regent Street home, a community hub opening in the old River Island on The Parade, House of Tweed on Regent Street, and Cuetopia on Bridge Street.

A Swindon Borough Council spokesman said: "Town centres across the country have faced some difficult times over the last few years, but there are some green shoots of recovery, particularly here in Swindon.

"While the town centre of the future will feature more office space, retail and leisure experiences, traditional retail businesses will remain and new ones will come into the area.

"The images show how, in just over 18 months, a number of new businesses have opened in to our town centre, thanks to the work done by the council’s planning and licensing teams as well as the landowners of these units.

"To find out more about the town centre, visit www.swindon.gov.uk/towncentreregeneration"