Swindon’s new Bus Boulevard, a revamped Fleming Way, is set to open in less than a year, according to reports.

The project, designed to be a public transport hub, aims to rejuvenate the town centre, which has seen better days.

However, the initiative has led to a mixture of anticipation and scepticism among readers.

Yet, the council has been cautious with timelines due to previous delays, initially planning for a 2024 opening.

Read more: Bus Boulevard on track for 'end of summer 2025' opening

Amid the excitement, many residents cast doubts on the project’s potential impact on the town.

Resident Carl Robertson voiced a common sentiment, stating, "A bus boulevard for a dead town centre."

His comment reflects the prevailing view that a new transport hub may not be enough to revive the area significantly.

Ben Little added a tone of sarcasm, saying, "Yay!

"I can’t wait to not go into Swindon town centre!

"This is definitely what is going to bring to town back from a desolate shadow of its once bustling former self."

His light-hearted remark highlights the frustration many feel regarding the town centre's decline.

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Several commenters have pointed out that the existing retail scene in Swindon is far from thriving.

Bradley Middleton lamented, "Opening for what?

"An empty town centre filled with coffee / charity / pound shops."

This sentiment was echoed by others, including Lee Gristwood, who added, "And don’t forget the vape shops and nail bars," suggesting a lack of variety and vibrancy in the current shopping experience.

Meanwhile David Cornell labelled the project as "Swindon’s new white elephant," expressing doubt about the council's ability to manage such initiatives effectively.

Along similar lines, Nick Workman noted the dramatic changes in the town, stating, "I return to Swindon occasionally and despair how the once thriving town centre is now a ghost town."

The growing concern about the lack of genuine improvement in the town centre was further highlighted by comments about the area's shopping options.

Alan Alexander remarked, "New bus boulevard be open but all the shops in the Brunel be shut!

"Sad but true!"

Residents seem to feel that the new bus boulevard could be another addition to a list of poorly received initiatives.

Some locals believe that the focus on public transport should not overshadow the need for other developments.

Martin Campbell expressed frustration, stating, "Complete waste of at least £22M," referencing the significant financial investment in the project.

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Others, like Steve South, questioned why the council did not consult residents on their wishes, saying, "Why didn’t Swindon council ask the people of Swindon what they wanted?"

While some residents are cautious, others have a more positive outlook.

Ruth Walsh, a daily bus user, expressed her excitement, saying, "I can’t wait.

"Better than what we have now!"

Her enthusiasm reflects a hope that improved transport facilities will encourage more people to visit the town centre.

However, the prevailing sentiment seems to be one of disbelief about the project's potential impact.

Many see it as an inadequate response to a deeply rooted problem.

As Darren Smythe quipped, "Green Day released a song about this called boulevard of broken dreams..! Seems appropriate for the Swindon boulevard!

"Everything in Swindon is broken..!!"

It’s clear that the Bus Boulevard has become a focal point for discussions about Swindon’s future.

With opening day still nearly a year away, residents are left to wonder whether this project will truly breathe new life into a town that many believe is in decline.

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