TODAY the Evening Advertiser reports on the progress of four high profile buildings in Swindon.

Each case represents a wasted opportunity and our stories highlight the need to ensure their full potential is fulfilled.

We have been talking about the future of the Locarno building and Gilberts Hill School for years.

Yet they face another winter boarded up, once again at the mercy of the elements.

The youth centre given by Asda Walmart for the people of North Swindon was set to remain unused because the council could not afford to staff it. Then the Adver stepped in and there is now hope that volunteers and extra funding may allow it to open after all.

People in the David Murray John Tower are fed up with being forgotten they say their building has been neglected by the council to the extent that they haven't had their windows cleaned for years. Again, exposure in the Adver appears to have brought a result.

On the face of it these stories are simply about bricks and mortar.

But they represent much more than this.

The Locarno and Gilberts Hill School used to be an integral part of the community. Buildings like these are the lifeblood of a town that needs places for people to meet and socialise. Like the former Railway Museum and the Mechanics Institute, they are buildings that could enrich our lives if utilised properly.

The youth centre in North Swindon would be a valuable meeting place for young people while the David Murray John Tower, a symbol of Swindon, deserves better.

Let's make sure we are not here this time next year talking about the same problem.

Swindon Council has dragged its heels for long enough. It is time to act by coming up with imaginative solutions to the problems of empty buildings.

After all, if the Adver can get results then surely the council can manage to act to make this town a better place to live.