THE future of Swindon’s most historic railway sites are set to be safeguarded as part of a project by English Heritage.

Swindon grew as a railway town on the pioneering Great Western route, which was built 176 years ago by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Earlier this month, Network Rail began work on electrifying part of the historic line as part of their 10-year improvement plan, due to be completed by 2017.

In response to this major infrastructure project, English Heritage, with the support from Network Rail, are consulting on the historic and architectural significance of a number of historic railway buildings, bridges and tunnels along the 116 miles of track of the Great Western main line.

Of the 50 buildings and structures which have been identified as deserving closer attention, six have been identified in the Swindon area.

On the list are Ermin Street’s roman bridge, Swindon Station island platform building, the Railway Works subway entrance on Station Road, Swindon Road overbridge, the Bourton Overbridge and the Bourton Church Overbridge.

Patrick Hallgate, route managing director for Network Rail Western, said: “The Great Western Railway is undergoing the biggest investment since it was built by Brunel to deliver faster, greener, more reliable services with additional seats for passengers.

“Electrification will improve links between towns and cities and, critically, help stimulate economic growth across the region.

“We recognise the historical and heritage significance of this railway, which is why we’re working closely with English Heritage now to make sure that any sensitive structures are safeguarded ahead of construction.”

The consultation runs for three weeks until May 9 and will help confirm the part these played in the development of the line and provide evidence of their significance.

Following the consultation, English Heritage will recommend to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport which should be designated.

Swindon Council, Steam and the Railway Heritage Trust are among some of the bodies being consulted as well as railway enthusiasts and the general public.

Emily Gee, head of designation at English Heritage, said: “While the whole Great Western Railway is historically remarkable, statutory listing is warranted for its buildings of special architectural or historic interest.

“After carefully examining the documentary evidence and the structures themselves, it is likely that certain further bridges and other railway buildings will merit listing, and others might be upgraded to better reflect their importance.

“English Heritage is working closely with Network Rail and their professional advisers — and now the public — to fully understand and protect the most special aspects of this significant Victorian railway achievement, to help prepare it for its next exciting phase.”