Update:  Since this article has been published, The Swindon Advertiser has learned that the council's statement that the tree for the town centre is being provided by The Wyvern Theatre is incorrect.

While the Wyvern Theatre has been involved in the process, the tree is actually being provided by the Charlton Park Estate for the NSPCC and their Christmas funding campaign, and the NSPCC has done the majority of the work to secure it for the town centre. 

It wouldn’t be Christmas without some decorations and Swindon Borough Council has confirmed that the town centre will be lit up this coming festive season. 

The local authority announced that the shopping destination will get a festive make-over next month.

In a post on its Facebook page it also announced that as well as the lights there will be a Christmas tree, which will be supplied by The Wyvern Theatre and installed by Colas Ltd, the current contractors working on the Fleming Way improvement scheme. 

The tree will be located in the heart of the town centre on Regent Street and The Parade in a move that the council hopes will 'bring the area to life as retailers welcome shoppers this Christmas season'. 

Councillor Kevin Small, cabinet member for finance, said: “We couldn’t let the town centre go without any decorations for this festive season. 

“Despite the collapse of inSwindon earlier this year, who would usually pull together the festivities, we’ve worked hard with our partners across the town centre to make sure the area is lit up and ready to welcome shoppers buying gifts for their friends and loved ones. 

“Christmas is an important time for every high street and we want to make Swindon’s as welcoming as possible to encourage footfall and make use of the shops, both big and independent, we have in the area. 

“It’s amazing to see companies within the area pull together and I can’t thank the Wyvern and Colas enough for their help with the Christmas tree. 

“There will be plenty going on, so be sure to check social media to find out the latest.” 

2022 was the final year that the town centre was managed by InSwindon BID before it folded and as part of the festivities, there was a light trail, a Christmas market, carol singing and Santa's Grotto. 

The council has not yet confirmed if any other events or activities like this will be planned for the town centre this year, but did encourage shoppers to keep an eye on businesses in the area. 

The spokesperson continued: "Be sure to check retailers’ websites and The Brunel Swindon’s social media to see what other festive events are taking place over the season."