Three-month road closure divides opinion

Local business owners, such as florist Charlotte Phipps, hope the closure will lead to more pedestrian traffic

The planned three-month closure of a major road in Swindon has drawn mixed reactions from residents and businesses.

During the closure, which will begin in June, Wales & West Utilities will replace ageing gas pipes under the A4289 Devizes Road, one of the key routes in the town.

Having been issued temporary pavement licences, several businesses on the road have said the closure may revitalise trade, but commuters have raised concerns about the impact it will have on traffic.

The planned road closure, approved by Swindon Borough Council, will continue in phases until the end of September.

The section of pipe being replaced is more than 80 years old and has reached the end of its operational life.

Kris Talikowski, vice chair of Old Town Business Association, is among those optimistic about the closure.

"The pop-up licences give businesses a chance to keep add some extra trading through the works, and to create a really positive atmosphere on Devizes Road this summer," he said.

"We're also committed to supporting our businesses and making the most of the situation.

"With safe pedestrian access maintained, and outdoor trading encouraged, we hope residents and visitors alike will continue to support Old Town throughout the summer."

Bar owner Hayley Stapleton said the closure would allow her to make better use of outdoor space

Charlotte Phipps, who owns The Flower Pot on Devizes Road, said she had mixed feelings about the project.

"I'm a bit apprehensive. I'm hoping that the footfall will be great, and I can have a lot more plants outside, but it's a big thing not having cars going past the shop," she added.

"The footfall of Old Town at the moment is brilliant. Lots of people are out and very positive about all the shops and things to see. The lack of traffic will hopefully bring in more people on foot."

Hayley Stapleton, owner of the nearby bar the Tuppenny, said she was "really excited".

"Having some outdoor space where we can trade in the summer months is a real positive," she added.

But a number of local residents have expressed concerns with one describing the closure as a "big hassle" and another believing that it would "cause more traffic problems" because of the knock-on effect on other roads.

The works will start from the Croft Road end and gradually progress towards Wood Street.