It has been revealed that a replacement for the Wyvern Theatre is needed because the current venue is becoming 'unstable' 

The theatre's ageing condition has been one of the drivers of Swindon Borough Council’s desire to build a new theatre and concert venue in the town. 

This is why a new venue, significantly bigger than the current theatre near Regent Square, plays a significant role in the council’s Swindon Plan and its mission to Build A Better Swindon.

Leader Councillor Jim Robbins has expressed confidence that a new site for it near the existing bus station can be found and it could be open as soon as 2026.

Cllr Robbins said of the plan: “We can deliver the new venue ahead of a refurbed Oasis."

Both the council and Oasis owners Seven Capital are working on getting the refurbished centre open during 2026.

But what’s the urgency?

When first announcing the plan The cabinet member for arts culture and heritage Marina Strinkovsky said: “The Wyvern is coming to the end of its life, in two ways. It’s a concrete building, it wasn’t built as a Regency building intended to last for 300 years and it’s too small. 

“The podium is becoming structurally unstable.” 

She emphasised that there was no question of the building being unsafe

Councillor Robbins said more recently: “It’s no secret that the building at the Wyvern is coming towards the end of its life. It was built in the early 1970s and the fabric of the building is ageing.”

He also said the current theatre’s capacity at just over 600 was too small: “If you want the biggest touring shows or the biggest comedians then you need twice that size, and more.”

While no firm proposals or drawings are available,  previously Cllr Robbins said he wanted a flexible space that could host smaller shows but also be expanded to have 2,000 seats when needed.

The Wyvern Theatre director Laura James said: “We love our Wyvern Theatre and during her lifetime she has entertained millions of visitors.

“But with the passage of time, comes the realisation that our beloved Wyvern is past the prime of her youth.

 “We fully support Swindon Borough Council’s plans to manage a seamless transition - with no loss of provision - to a new entertainment venue and are looking forward to engaging with them as these exciting plans develop. 

Once the new theatre is operational Cllr Robbins said the current Wyvern will be kept: “It will be as a performing space and we’d hope it is well-used by community arts groups, but the main professional theatre will be where the bus station is now.”