Plans for long-awaited bridge move forward

Plans for a long-awaited bridge over the railway line at Mane Way are moving forward, with Wiltshire Council expected to submit a planning application early next year.

The council has begun developing proposals for the bridge, which would link Mane Way with the Spinnaker development and provide a route for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.

The plans will include a package of transport proposals in Westbury, including changes to Amazon Way and Oldfield Road.

The bridge project has been discussed for more than 15 years and was included in plans for the 300-home Spinnaker development near Station Road in 2015.

Wiltshire Council says the project is still at an early stage, with designs being developed and no final decisions made.

Several local councillors have campaigned for progress on the bridge, including Cllr Rob Smith and Cllr Boaz Barry. Cllr Smith said, “Finally some good news for Westbury residents. The  issues with Oldfield Road and the promised bridge at Mane Way are being addressed at last.

“I have lobbied heavily since getting elected to get Westbury transport woes updated to reduce the chaos and frustration that Westbury road users have to contend with on a daily basis and at last we will see the improvements needed actioned in the not too distant future. This is great news for Westbury.”

On Amazon Way, plans could include changes to parking arrangements, measures to discourage commuter parking in residential areas and other traffic management measures.

The council says it will consider a range of options for Oldfield Road. These could include measures to improve traffic flow, a review of existing traffic calming features and other highway improvements.

More substantial improvements to Oldfield Road would follow once the bridge is operational, allowing the council to assess how traffic is using the network before progressing further work.

The council has begun discussions with Westbury Town Council and says residents and local organisations will have opportunities to comment on the proposals as they develop.

David Bullock, Director of Highways and Transport, said, “These proposals are still at an early stage and we are committed to working closely with local residents, Westbury Town Council and other stakeholders as the designs develop.

“The Mane Way Bridge has the potential to improve connectivity across Westbury and support future transport improvements in the area, but there is still a significant amount of work to do before any final decisions are made.

“We want residents to help shape these proposals and ensure any future improvements reflect the needs of the local community.”

For more information, visit: https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/mane-way-bridge