Uncertainty persists over Swindon's David Murray John tower refurbishment
Council confirms ongoing discussions and lack of formal decision on building's future
Swindon's tallest building, the David Murray John (DMJ) tower, remains largely uninhabited, with its future still uncertain despite ongoing improvement efforts.
In response to a Freedom of Information request, Swindon Borough Council disclosed it has not formally decided to retain or dispose of the building.
The council confirmed regular compliance surveys are conducted, though there is currently no window cleaning in place.
Plans surrounding the tower's potential redevelopment are under discussion with adjacent landowners, aiming for a viable proposal.
Standing at 272 feet, the DMJ tower, an iconic Swindon landmark, was completed in 1976, named in honour of David Murray John, Swindon Borough Council’s Clerk from 1938 to 1974.
David Murray John, known as 'Mr Swindon', was instrumental in bringing industry post-WW2 to Swindon, advocating for a towering landmark in the town's centre.
In early 2023, the council projected up to £7 million in repairs for the building; however, by 2025, necessary external fabric replacements were still in progress.
The council acknowledges substantial modernisation costs are needed, engaging in discussions with potential developers to revitalise the landmark.