Transport links between Swindon and a new planned development of more than 4,000 homes are set to be significantly improved, following the awarding of £11.6m to a road scheme by the Department for Transport (DfT).
Transport Minister Baroness Vere announced the funding of the project, which will be led by Swindon Borough Council.
It will provide a new access road between the A419 Commonhead roundabout and the southern end of the planned New Eastern Villages development, enabling the construction of 4,150 new homes.
A footway and shared-use path will run either side of the new road, ensuring ease of access for pedestrians and cyclists, while a new signalised junction at Commonhead and a mini roundabout at Wanborough village will help manage traffic flow in the area.
The total cost of the road scheme is £30.5m, with the further £18.9m being provided by Homes England.
Works are due to be completed by Autumn 2022.
Baroness Vere said: “Our funding towards this new road scheme will help make the New Eastern Villages site a reality, providing a huge boost to Swindon’s economy by supporting thousands of new homes and jobs.
“This new scheme has been planned with everyone in mind and will ensure fast and smooth journeys for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians across the area.
“As we build back better from the pandemic, we will continue to invest in our infrastructure to boost connections, drive regeneration and level up regions across the UK.”
The full New Eastern Villages development programme is set to deliver 8,650 new homes to Swindon, as well as 40 hectares of employment land, new shopping facilities and supporting services, as well as green corridors to help enable and promote healthy lifestyles and more active travel.
Cllr Gary Sumner, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Infrastructure, Transport and Planning, said: “The Southern Connector Road is an essential part of the infrastructure required to deliver the New Eastern Villages and I’m extremely pleased that we have managed to secure complete funding from the Department for Transport and Homes England for this really important link road.
“We are investing £72.5m into the road network around the New Eastern Villages, most of which has been secured from government.
“This investment in Swindon’s future is a great vote of confidence for our town.”
