Work starts on £700,000 sixth form conversion at Lydiard House

Swindon Borough Council said on Friday 16 October 2026 that work was under way at Lydiard House, the Grade I listed Palladian house it owns at Lydiard Park, to make teaching and learning spaces for a sixth form.

What is being done?

• The refurbishment is concentrated on rooms on the first floor.
• The space is for around 120 sixth-form students and staff.
• The investment is £700,000.
• Planning approval was given earlier in 2026.

Events and exhibitions are continuing in the museum's state room while the work goes on.

When were students due to move in?

Students from Lydiard Park Academy were due to move in during 2027. The council did not give a month.

Who visited?

Councillor Matty Courtliff, Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, and Councillor Kate Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Children and Education, toured the house with Year 11 students and staff from the academy.

Cllr Courtliff said: "I'm pleased the work that is underway is being managed sensitively to safeguard such an important heritage asset."

Joshua Coulson, Principal of Lydiard Park Academy, said: "We look forward to seeing it become a place of learning, aspiration and achievement for years to come."

The council first bought Lydiard House in 1943.

More from Swindo: the history of Lydiard House and Lydiard Park guide.

Source: Swindon Borough Council.