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Town centre revamp 'on target' for summer opening

Swindon Borough Council A freshly tarmacked cycle path alongside an existing road through Swindon town centre. Swindon Borough Council
Work has started on cycle lanes as part of the city centre revamp

A new cycle path is being installed as part of ongoing works to transform a city centre into a green "bus boulevard".

Fleming Way in Swindon, Wiltshire, is undergoing a £33m revamp to upgrade the pedestrianised route which connects the bus and train station to the town centre.

As part of the scheme, cyclists will have dedicated lanes alongside the bus lanes which will be controlled by traffic lights, allowing pedestrians to cross safely.

The project has faced delays but councillor Chris Watts, Swindon Borough Council cabinet member, said work was now "progressing nicely", adding: "We're still on target for our late summer opening."

Councillor Chris Watts wearing a black coat and black rimmed glasses. He is standing by the side of the road in Swindon, with patches of grass on either side. He has brown hair with some grey highlights and a closely shaven beard.
Councillor Chris Watts said the project was "still on target" for a late summer opening

Pedestrians have faced long diversions and drivers have suffered traffic disruption since September 2022, when Fleming Way underpass was closed for demolition.

The project faced delays shortly after construction began in April 2022 when it was discovered telecommunication cables were not buried deep enough for the new designs.

Watts, the council's cabinet member for environment and transport, said: "Those visiting the town centre are sure to notice how different the road now looks when compared to earlier in the scheme."

Swindon Borough Council A patch of greenery in the middle of the road in Swindon. Various types of bushes, shrubs and greenery have been planted inside a bed full of woodchips. There are freshly tarmacked cycle paths on either side, and orange cones and plastic barriers dotted around. Swindon Borough Council
More than 180 trees and 23,000 shrubs and bushes have been planted

Mr Watts said the regeneration scheme had received "really positive feedback" from the town's bus operators.

He added there are a number of measures being installed to ensure accessibility.

"We're continuing to add in the new accessible bus shelters, which feature different seating options, wireless charging, digital screens and solar panels," he continued.

"A new toilet block was installed in March, which includes two larger accessible toilets as well as a unit featuring equipment such as hoists, privacy screens, adult-sized changing benches and space for carers."

More than 180 trees and 23,000 shrubs and bushes have also been planted.

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