New bridge for Swindon's Wichelstowe development
A specially-built new bridge linking both sides of the Wichelstowe development in south Swindon will be erected soon.
Barratt Homes has been granted permission to build the structure, which should make the housing project much more connected. It will be erected across Elcombe Brook, providing access to both sides of the estate. As part of the project, a bike and pedestrian route will also be factored in.
According to Swindon Borough Council, the new bridge will provide a sustainable transportation link connecting residents to the centre of the area. According to planning records, the council wants to start a new east-to-west bus route that would run approximately three times an hour.
A raised block paved crossing will be built to assist pedestrian mobility along the bridge. This would allow buses, pedestrians and bicycles to all safely share the bridge.
Wichelstowe is a residential development and urban expansion on the southern outskirts of Swindon that has been open since late 2006. It's made up of three neighbourhoods: East, Middle and West Wichel. It is located north of the M4 motorway between junction 16 and Croft Road.
The development includes nearly 4,000 residences, workspace, public open space, shops, resident community facilities and several schools. It was formally recognised as the country's largest housing project on public property back in 2014.
Main picture courtesy of: Dave Cox/Swindon Advertiser
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