Local News · Swindon
Wroughton residents hit out at 'horrendous' summer of roadworks disruption
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Wroughton and Wichelstowe Parish Council has formally criticised the management of summer roadworks in the village, citing gridlock, pollution and poor communication.
Residents in Wroughton have expressed significant frustration following a summer of persistent roadworks that led to daily traffic gridlock, increased pollution and the diversion of heavy goods vehicles through the village’s smaller streets. The Wroughton and Wichelstowe Parish Council has now formally raised these concerns with Swindon Borough Council, calling for a review of how such projects are coordinated and communicated.
In a letter to Councillor Nick Gardiner, the borough council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, the parish council argued that the cumulative impact of various works was poorly managed. Deputy clerk Thomas Haworth described the situation as having led to a near-total disregard for road safety standards and noted that information provided to residents was often contradictory or misleading.
The parish council stated that while it understands some works are essential or fall outside the direct control of the borough council, the current approach to planning and communication has been inadequate. They have called for a more joined-up approach to ensure that future infrastructure projects do not replicate the disruption experienced over recent months.
Responding to the complaints, Councillor Nick Gardiner acknowledged the frustration felt by local motorists and residents. He defended the actions of the Street Works team, asserting that the department had engaged extensively with the parish council, including attending committee meetings outside of standard working hours to discuss forthcoming schemes and road closures.
Councillor Gardiner expressed disappointment that the parish council’s characterisation did not reflect this engagement. He noted that the borough’s Street Works team had provided training and access to the one.network platform, an online service that provides real-time information on road closures, emergency repairs and utility works. He confirmed the borough council would renew its offer of training and support to parish representatives to help improve the flow of information to the community.
The one.network platform remains available for all residents and councillors to track ongoing and planned works in their area. Users can set up daily or weekly email alerts to stay updated on diversions and expected completion dates for local projects. The borough council has indicated its willingness to work with the parish to ensure that essential maintenance is balanced with the need to minimise disruption to the daily lives of those living and working in Wroughton.
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