Cash boost for Cricketer’s restoration in Railway Village

Those who use the restored Victorian Cricketers pub in Railway Village will have those who like a flutter to thank for their splendid new surroundings.

The Swindon Heritage Preservation Trust, formerly the Mechanics’ Institute Trust, is bringing the Cricketers, sometimes alternatively known as The Cricketers Arms, in Emlyn Square back from dereliction into community use.

And it has just been given a grant of £250,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to continue the restoration of the Grade II-listed pub to bring it back as a community asset.

The trust said: “Funding will be used to complete the conservation of the remaining ground floor area, including the bar, kitchen, toilet block and storage room, with the strategy of returning these spaces back into permanent community use.

“This follows the successful completion of the lounge room and basement in autumn 2024, alongside the restoration of the building’s outdated utilities and structural integrity.”

Bob Wright, Chair of the preservation trust said: “We are delighted to have secured £249,950 in grant funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for the next phase of the Cricketers’ restoration.

”Over the past two years, we have successfully delivered the first two phases of the restoration work and are delighted to receive this latest round of grant funding to enable us to complete the conservation of the entire ground floor area.

“The funding will also support our organisational capabilities and resources as we expand our work in championing Swindon’s rich heritage and delivering opportunities for community empowerment and cultural pride. A big thank you to all our supporters and volunteers – and the National Lottery players who made this grant possible – together, we will bring back Swindon’s heritage.”

Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We’re proud to support Swindon Heritage Preservation with this project – it marks an important step in restoring the Cricketers building and unlocking its potential as a vibrant community space.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, this funding will help bring new life to this historic building and create lasting opportunities for learning, connection, and pride in local heritage