Work to improve pedestrian safety on Frogmore Road is set to begin this month, following an 18-month campaign by local residents.
The improvements, which will see a footway constructed along part of Frogmore Road, are due to commence on Monday 27th January following a successful bid for funding from Westbury’s LHFIG (Local Highway & Footway Improvement Group) and Westbury Town Council.
Following years of complaints, residents launched a petition in 2023 to urge Wiltshire Council to take immediate action to improve road safety in the area. Concerns were raised that the area has become increasingly hazardous for pedestrians as there is no pavement on Frogmore Road or any kind of pedestrian crossing. Residents said that the route was particularly unsafe as it is used by children going to school.
Wiltshire Council has confirmed that the improvements will include the construction of a new footway along the entire northern side of Frogmore Road, stretching from its junction with Rosefield Way to its junction with Slag Lane.
Extensive vegetation removal will be carried out on Monday 27th January to prepare the area for construction. This is expected to take one week to complete and during this time the road will be closed.
The construction of the footway will then start on Monday 3rd February and is expected to take approximately 12 weeks to complete. During this period, there will be a full 24-hour road closure in place and pedestrian routes linking to Frogmore Road will also be closed. There will be diversions in place for both vehicles and pedestrians.
While access will be maintained where possible, residents and visitors should expect delays. No through traffic will be permitted on the closed section of the road during the construction period.
Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for highways, said, “This scheme has been brought forward by both the Westbury LHFIG and Westbury Town Council, so we know providing this much-needed footway has the support of the community.
“We understand that the upcoming road closures may cause some inconvenience, and we apologise for any disruptions this may cause. However, this project is a crucial step in enhancing pedestrian safety in Westbury, particularly as the area continues to grow and develop.
“We appreciate the patience of both residents and visitors throughout this process, and we are confident that the completed footway will have a lasting, positive impact on the community. This upgrade is part of our broader initiative to create safer and more accessible routes across the county. The new footway will provide a safer route for people walking to and from their destinations.
“A priority in our Business Plan is to have well-connected communities and the completion of this scheme will significantly enhance pedestrian access and safety for the residents in Westbury.”
Pictured: A pedestrian on Frogmore Road, where safety improvements are set to begin
