STRATEGIES to counter Swindon's image problem have been debated at a regional planning meeting.

The South West of England Regional Development Agency's annual review, which took place in Corsham, was organised to discuss long-term projects for the South West, ranging from urban regeneration to housing improve-ments and tourism.

And a wish list for Swindon, which includes plans to improve public spaces and public transport, came under discussion.

Philip Watkins, RDA head of operations for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: "Swindon suffers from an image problem. We want to help this dynamic commercial centre develop its culture and become a more realistic candidate for city status."

He said that the RDA is supporting the Swindon Urban Regeneration Company, which

aims to overhaul the town centre. And in turn, the URC will explore how to improve public spaces, the university campus, cultural, leisure and retail areas.

Mr Watkins said: "We have committed funding of £250,000 a year for the next three years to assist the URC in gathering proposals. And separate funding will be provided for regeneration projects."

New housing and transport initiatives also feature on the RDA's agenda.

Mr Watkins said: "Swindon needs a more integrated transport system.

Millions of people visit the Designer Outlet Centre. But this needs to be linked to the town centre. A light railway service is not out of the question."

The RDA is also backing the new Oakfield campus of Bath University in its bid to become a business incubation centre.

This involved funding a feasibility study to see whether the site can nurture pioneering companies and research projects.

Parks and Walcot has also received £43,000 to develop a plan for improving community facilities.

Mr Watkins said: "These are all very exciting, innovative plans which involve local people at a grass roots level."

Conservative leader on Swindon Council, Coun Mike Bawden (Old Town and Lawns) attended the meeting and praised the RDA's forward thinking.

He said: "There are some very exciting opportunities in the pipeline which will help to secure Swindon's continued growth."

Mr Bawden, a member of the URC, supported the crusade to enhance Swindon's culture.

He expressed a desire for more higher education and leisure facilities.

"Swindon is like a golden goose without a heart," he said. "In spite of being a leading area of employment, it lags behind culturally."

Nick Fenwick, head of planning and health at Swindon Council, was equally impressed by the RDA's ambitions.

He said: "The plans to overhaul Swindon's image sound extremely promising. Besides sustaining our economic growth, the town looks set to be a more attractive place to live and stands a better chance of becoming a city."

www.southwestrda.org.uk