Swindon town centre then and now photos show decades of change

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 31 Oct, 06:18 · Archive

Photo comparisons show how Swindon town centre has transformed since the late 1970s or early 1980s.

A nostalgic photo comparison of Swindon town centre has emerged, showing how the area has transformed over the past several decades. The original photograph is believed to have been taken in the late 1970s or early 1980s and shows the now-demolished McIlroys department store and the former Oven Door bakers shop.

The comparison was inspired by a post by Annie Cox on social media. The Facebook group Swindon From The Air then took their own 'now and then' photo to document the changes in the town centre over the years.

When comparing the two images, the most visible change is the significantly bigger tree now in the centre of the street, demonstrating the physical transformation of the area. The demolition of McIlroys department store represents one of the major alterations to the town centre's landscape since the original photograph was taken.

The 'then and now' photos have resonated with local residents interested in the town's history and development. Such nostalgic comparisons have become popular on social media, allowing communities to reflect on how their local areas have evolved over time.

How it is being reported

• Then and now photos show how Swindon town centre has changedA nostalgic photo comparison has emerged, showing the changes in Swindon town centre over the years.Swindon Advertiser · 31 Oct, 05:00
• Then and now photos show how Swindon town centre has changedA nostalgic photo comparison has emerged, showing the changes in Swindon town centre over the years.This Is Wiltshire · 31 Oct, 05:00
• Then and now photos show how Swindon town centre has changedA nostalgic photo comparison has emerged, showing the changes in Swindon town centre over the years.Wiltshire Times · 31 Oct, 05:00
• Then and now photos show how Swindon town centre has changedA nostalgic photo comparison has emerged, showing the changes in Swindon town centre over the years.Gazette & Herald · 31 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Swindon · Swindon From The Air · McIlroys · Annie Cox

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log