Then And Now

This section of the site is provided in partnership with The Swindon Society and The Richard Jefferies Society. It enables you to see how the surrounding area used to look and learn more about your town. We are adding value by providing a current photograph taken as far as possible from the same position. The project involves a fair bit of detective work, so if you can add or correct information, please get in touch. This is your site, so if you would like to get involved in extending this project, please let us know.

Title Description Datesort icon
Eastcott Road: Stanwells 2009

Stanwell's Engineering Supplies in Eastcott Road. A traditional supplier of esoteric engineering tools for many years. How long it can continue to survive in an age of planned obsolescence is anyone's guess

 August 26, 2009 Then
Faringdon Road, Great Western Clothiers, Owners, 1987

Dennis and Sylvia Morris the owners of Great Western Clothiers, just prior to the closure in October 1987. Originally opened in 1899 with generations of families shopping there, Dennis started as an apprentice in 1942, became a partner then later took over the business.

 June 1, 1987 Then
Newport Street, Swindon Town Station, Les Holland, mural, 1986

Les Holland painting a mural at the site of Swindon Town Station on the former railway track to Rushey Platt, west Swindon, September 1986. The mural celebrated the old MSWJR, whose locomotives were painted in a dark red livery, contrast to the livery of the GWR engines during the early part of the century.

 September 1, 1986 Then
GWR Works, old style washbasins, 1980

These old fashioned sinks remained in use until the Works closed. (Estimated date)

 June 1, 1980 Then
Victoria Road: Viewpoint building

The original Swindon Viewpoint building in use from 1973 to 1980

 January 1, 1980 Then