Radical £30m plans to remodel the centre of Swindon will be on display to the public next week.

Swindon Borough Council wants to turn Fleming Way into a car-free Bus Boulevard and interchange, to make it easier for public transport users to get about.

The plans would also see the road levelled, and the underpass taken away.

The council’s plans include a new public space to reflect the old canal that used to run along Fleming Way.

Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for the town centre, said: “The replacement of the bus station is long overdue and this significant scheme will not just benefit those who live and work here, but create a lasting impression on people who come to visit our town. Swindon has been shortlisted for £25m by the government from hundreds of bids, and we now have to wait until the autumn for a final decision.

“This would be one of the largest investments in the heart of our town in a generation and sends a message to businesses that Swindon is a place in which to invest.

“If you would like to find out a bit more about the plans and how they will benefit the town centre then please come along to one of the engagement sessions because we genuinely would like to hear your views.”

All national and local bus services would be incorporated along Fleming Way, making it a de facto station and hub, while the new road layout would complete the link between the Eastern and Western Flyer cycle routes.

The existing bus station In New Bridge Close will be demolished after the new transport hub has been completed, with the council intending to make the land available for more houses and offices.

It hopes to pay for the boulevard using £25m from the government’s Future High Streets Fund and £5m of its own money.

The final bid for funding will be submitted this April, and the council expects to find out if it has been successful in the autumn. Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership has made £3m available to come up with a final design for the proposal.

Drop-in sessions will be held on Tuesday noon-5pm, and Thursday, March 5 2-7pm.

Further information is available at: www.swindon.gov.uk/busboulevard