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Devizes Road Closure – Summer 2025
Essential Works by Wales & West Utilities

This summer, Devizes Road in Swindon will be undergoing a staged closure to allow Wales & West Utilities to carry out vital infrastructure works to replace an ageing gas main. These works are essential to ensure the long-term safety and reliability of the local gas network.

Closure Overview

  • Start Date: End of June 2025

  • End Date: End of September 2025

  • Location: Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon

  • Nature of Works: Replacement of a critical gas pipe over 80 years old

  • Provider: Wales & West Utilities

  • Permission Granted By: Swindon Borough Council

Staged Approach

The closure will take place in four phases, moving progressively along Devizes Road, starting at the Croft Road end and finishing at the Wood Street junction. Signage and diversion routes will be clearly marked throughout each stage.

Access for Residents and Deliveries

Throughout the closure, residents and local businesses will continue to have access. Delivery services and essential business operations will be maintained, with stewards on-site to manage access where needed.

Engaging Local Businesses

Wales & West Utilities will be speaking individually with all businesses along the route in the coming weeks to explain how the works will affect them and to answer any questions. This direct engagement aims to ensure minimal disruption and to support smooth day-to-day operations during the closure.

Supporting Local Trade

In partnership with Old Town Business Association and Swindon Borough Council, measures are being put in place to support the local economy during the works. This includes temporary pavement licences for outdoor seating and trading, helping to maintain a vibrant and inviting street atmosphere throughout the summer months.

Diversion Routes

Diversion routes will be clearly signed and updated for each stage of the closure. A full diversion map and schedule will be available below.

Stay Updated

We will provide regular updates below and phase timelines when we have them, along with contact information for any queries related to access or disruption.

For more information, please visit the Wales & West Utilities website or follow our updates via This Is Old Town social media channels.

 

NEWS / UPDATES

Wales & West General FAQ’s

Project specific FAQ’s:

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • The closure is to allow Wales & West Utilities to replace a critical section of gas main that is over 80 years old. This work is essential to ensure the safety and reliability of the gas supply in Old Town.

  • The works will begin at the end of June 2025 and are expected to be completed by the end of September 2025.

  • No, the closure will be carried out in four staged phases, starting at the Croft Road end and progressing towards the Wood Street end. This helps limit disruption to smaller sections at a time.

  • Yes, pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the works.

RESIDENT ACCESS & DELIVERIES

  • Yes, residents will retain access to their properties throughout the works. Access points and arrangements may change depending on the phase.

  • Yes, deliveries will be permitted. Access will be managed and stewards may be present to help coordinate vehicle entry and exit.

  • Emergency services are being fully informed of the closure schedule and will maintain access throughout all stages.

BUSINESS CONCERNS

  • Yes. While through traffic will be diverted, pedestrian access and business deliveries will continue as normal, and every effort is being made to ensure customers can still visit.

  • In partnership with Swindon Borough Council, businesses will be offered temporary pavement licences to trade outdoors and attract footfall during the works. This will help maintain a vibrant atmosphere in affected areas.

  • Yes, signage will be provided to direct foot traffic and reassure customers that businesses along Devizes Road remain open throughout the works.

  • They will be speaking to all affected businesses individually in the coming weeks to explain the phasing, address any concerns, and ensure smooth operation during the closure.

  • In accordance with the law there will be no compensation available for businesses or residents.

TRAFFIC & DIVERSION

  • Diversion routes will be clearly marked during each phase of the works. A detailed map will be published online and made available in print and signage.

  • Check with local public transport providers for any route adjustments

  • his may depend on the staging and specific areas affected. Some temporary parking restrictions may be in place.

COMMUNICATION & CONTACTS

  • Visit thisisoldtown.com or follow our social media for regular updates. You can also visit the Wales & West Utilities website for engineering and traffic notices.

  • Contact details for both Wales & West Utilities and Swindon Borough Council will be published here soon.