18/03/09 - 25M Pound Library Development Means New Chapter For South Marston

The decision by one of the world's most famous libraries to build a £25 million storage facility in South Marston has been warmly welcomed by the local councillor and the prospective Conservative MP.

Oxford University’s Bodleian Library, which recently celebrated its 400^th anniversary, has chosen South Marston Industrial Estate as the site for its new warehouse.  It’s expected to hold four million books – many of them priceless – when it opens next year.

Cllr Doreen Dart, ward councillor for Blunsdon, said, “This is great news and couldn’t have come at a better time.  I’m delighted that this £25 million development is coming to our area.  It’s the perfect site, on the South Marston Industrial Estate, and will be a very welcome addition to the business community there”.

Cllr Justin Tomlinson, parliamentary candidate for North Swindon, which includes South Marston, said, “This is fantastic news.  Even in the depths of Labour’s recession, North Swindon is still getting new development.  It’s a huge vote of confidence in the local economy and in the hard work of Swindon Borough Council in attracting this kind of investment".