An abandoned pub in Swindon has been completely transformed thanks to National Lottery money - but it is not quite ready to open yet. 

A grant gifted to the district was put towards transforming the derelict pub, known formerly as both the Village Tavern and the Toot and Whistle, into a space for the community.

It has taken a while since the money was officially gifted in 2019 and the Toothill Big Local steering group was formed, but now work on the building has almost finished. 

But there is no timetable for when it might finally open to locals because of what it describes as 'serious building issues'. 

A spokesperson said: "Although the Hub might look to be finished there are several serious building issues which mean Swindon Borough Council building control are unable to give approval.

"We can't go into detail at the moment but will post an update as soon as we can."

Read More: Major progress on efforts to bring derelict Toothill pub back

The organisation had previously confirmed there were further delays in April.

They said: "We are so disappointed that the building isn't open and we can't show local residents around. Contractor challenges continue with key items yet to be done.

"Unfortunately it's not possible to go into detail at the time. Please be assured that we continue to work towards a timely resolution."

Swindon Advertiser: The Village Tavern in ToothillThe Village Tavern in Toothill (Image: Newsquest)

But photographs of what it looks like inside have been shared, showing the work that has been done to turn the dilapidated venue into a shiny community hub, complete with a bar. 

When the £1m in National Lottery money was gifted to the Toothill community, locals were given a chance to say how it should be used, and the abandoned public house was one of their biggest priorities. 

Toothill Big Local acquired a 62-year lease on the abandoned site in 2019, but Covid-19 stalled any restoration progress.

In June 2021, invitations to tender for construction work were sent out, and work started in August 2022. 

Plans showed that the currently ongoing construction work was forecasted to cost around £741,204 which included the installation of new heating, wifi, electrics, doors, and toilets and the installation of the family pub, kitchen, a defibrillator and children's areas. 

This is on top of £468,296 already spent to acquire the lease, register as a community interest company and other administrative costs.