Royal Wootton Bassett to Swindon cycleway
We are working with National Highways to install a new cycleway between Royal Wootton Bassett and Swindon. The scheme is being funded and delivered by National Highways with support from Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council and Sustrans. The cycleway would provide a segregated route for cyclists travelling over the M4 between Royal Wootton Bassett and Swindon.
The preferred route is now being developed through detailed design stage which is being funded by National Highways. Alongside the design works we are talking with the 3rd party landowners about the route and looking to secure a long term agreement for the cycleway. Following the detailed design and land agreements we will need to submit a planning application to secure the use of the new route, and this would be subject to the full statutory planning process.
Background
The delivery of a cycleway between Royal Wootton Bassett and Swindon has been a longstanding aspiration for National Highways, Wiltshire Council and its partners. Currently cyclists travelling between Wootton Bassett and Swindon generally have to either use the A3102 (crossing the M4 at junction 16) or travel via Hook Street along minor roads. Neither route currently provides viable or desirable route for cyclists which is why the segregated route is being promoted.
Project aims
The key aims of the proposed cycle and walking route are as follows:
- to help mitigate a forecast of increased traffic around J16 and Wootton Bassett as a result of new development
- to increase transport choices between Wootton Bassett and Swindon
- to help reduce emissions from existing and forecast levels of traffic
- to assist in reducing journey time reliability between Wootton Bassett and Swindon by reducing reliance on private motor vehicles
Programme
The programme and funding for this scheme are dependent on National Highways continued funding of the project. Due to factors outside of Wiltshire Council's control this programme is subject to change. The programme below represents the current programme.
Activity | Start | Finish |
---|---|---|
Detailed design | Autumn 2022 | Spring 2024 |
Land agreements | Ongoing | Ongoing |
Planning permission | To be confirmed | To be confirmed |
Construction | To be confirmed | To be confirmed |