Latest scheme in £1.98 million investment to improve access to Chippenham train station

A new scheme to provide pedestrians and cyclists with improved access to Chippenham train station is due to start next week.

The first phase of work starts on Monday 12 October 2020 and involves the removal of the existing zebra crossing on Cocklebury Road and the installation of a new toucan crossing in its place. It is anticipated the work will be completed on 23 October 2020.

To manage the safe flow of traffic during the works, three-way traffic signals will be in operation. The footpath will be temporarily closed but an alternative diversion will be provided for pedestrians to travel through the area safely. Local businesses will remain open and will continue to operate as normal.

A later phase of work to install a shared pedestrian and cycle path between Cocklebury Road and the new Sadlers Mead car park entrance is expected to commence on 9 November 2020 for a period of around three weeks.

Cllr Bridget Wayman, Cabinet Member for Highways, said:

These improvements will be carried out in phases to accommodate other infrastructure work taking place and to minimise disruption in the area. We apologise for any inconvenience caused during this time.

These are the second set of improvements in a £1.98 million package of transport measures linking into Chippenham train station and supporting those people who wish to travel more sustainably. The first, the installation of a shared pedestrian and cyclist path on Langley Road, is due to complete on time on Wednesday 14 October 2020.

These improvements form part of the larger £16 million Station Hub project funded by the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership (SWLEP) through the Local Growth Fund to develop Chippenham Station and its surrounding area.

Of this, £1.98 million has been allocated for transport infrastructure improvements that will, over the next 6 months, also see the refurbishment of traffic signals at Bristol Road/Hardenhuish, cycle improvements at the junction of Little George/Old Road and the conversion of a mini roundabout to a signalled controlled junction at Western Arches/Station Hill.

Paddy Bradley, SWLEP CEO said of the works:

This is an exciting step forward for the improvement works to Chippenham Station and we are thrilled to be involved in such an important project for Chippenham residents and visitors. This work will allow us to enhance the station facilities and proceed with the development of the surrounding land.