Decision details

To consider the results of the public consultation and technical assessment on the Tranche 2 Active Travel cycle scheme between Hilperton and Melksham and recommend a way forward.

I approve that Implementation of a cycle route utilising Byways HILP21, HILP22 and SEMI19A be progressed, omitting the point closure on Devizes Road, Hilperton from the overall scheme. The point closure on Devizes Road will be subject to further, separate, statutory consultation.

This decision was published on 02 December 2021 and will come into force on 10 December 2021.

Taking into consideration the content of this report, the route utilising byways HILP21, 22 and SEMI19 is the preferred option, and the implementation of the wider proposed scheme should proceed on that basis.

The removal of the Devizes Road point closure from the overall scheme at this time will allow for further consultation with the residents of Hilperton regarding this proposal. It is felt that there may not be sufficient support within the local community to pursue this at the current time. Whilst the inclusion of the point closure would have a positive impact for pedestrians and cyclists due to the removal of through traffic, Devizes Road is a suitably lightly trafficked, low speed route on which cycling and walking can be encouraged.

Wiltshire Council will progress the formal advertisement of the proposed point closure separate to the cycle scheme. This will allow statutory consultation to be undertaken, the outcome of which will inform the next steps for the closure.

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The alternative route via the A361 should be considered for future implementation should funding allow; however, the financial implications to the Council are such that this cannot be progressed at this time.

To:

(i)       Progress implementation of a cycle route utilising Byways HILP21, HILP22 and SEMI19A.

(ii)       Progress implementation of a cycle route utilising Byways HILP21, HILP22 and SEMI19A omitting the point closure on Devizes Road, Hilperton

(iii)      Progress implementation of an LTN1/20 compliant cycle route utilising the A361.

(iii)      Progress implementation of a non LTN1/20 compliant cycle route utilising the A361.

(iv)      Not implement a cycle route between Hilperton and Melksham and refer to Department of Transport for funding guidance.

The consultation went live on the Council website on 25 June 2021, closing on 18 July.  In addition to a press release highlighting the consultation, properties adjacent to the proposed routes were sent letters informing occupants of the consultation and how to give their feedback. Letters also went to a selection of residents in Trowbridge, Melksham, Hilperton and Semington inviting them to take part in the consultation.

Community Engagement Managers were asked to circulate information regarding the proposed scheme and consultation. The information was sent to the Trowbridge Area Board and Frontline Workers Network, which includes 70 partners and organisations. It was also shared on the Melksham ‘Community Matters’ website which reaches over 450 contacts within the Community Area.

During the consultation period a total of 531 comments were received.

This report was published on the Wiltshire Council Website with the “Intention to make a decision” by the Cabinet Member for Transport, Waste, Street Scene and Flooding. However, it was subject to further representations have been received and can be found in Appendix 5.