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Swindon mechanics institute theatres at risk video
Swindon Mechanics' Institute is Grade II* listed building in Swindon, Wiltshire, the centre of a former professional institution.
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History
Paid for via subscription by the Great Western Railway workers based at Swindon Railway Works, the building was designed and constructed by Edward Roberts and completed in 1855. It contained the UK’s first lending library and provided health services to workers. It was enlarged in 1892-93 by Brightwen Binyon, after which the committee opened up its health services to other local workers. Nye Bevan, mastermind of the NHS later said:
After the Institute closed in 1986, and after surcoming to both vandals and arsonists, it was saved from demolition by the council. In 2003 the building was acquired by Forefront Estates, who have been served with an urgent works notice by the Borough of Swindon.