Firm gets go-ahead for major development at Swindon park and ride – Swindon Advertiser
A firm has been given the go-ahead to build a major new development at Swindon’s South Marston Park and Ride.
The plans were approved by Swindon Borough Council’s planning committee. The decision means work can now start on the project which is being undertaken by a firm called Kier.
The plans, submitted by Swindon Borough Council, outline the proposals for the new development, including a multi-storey car park. It also features improved bus interchange facilities as well as amenities including cycle parking and pedestrian walkways.
In addition to the car park, Kier will build new waiting shelters and public toilets, a bus interchange, lighting and landscaping.
The development will also feature EV charging points. It has been described as a vital piece of infrastructure for Swindon and it’s set to create a more accessible park and ride facility. The hope is that it will encourage more people to leave their cars at home and use public transport.
A Swindon Borough Council spokesperson said they are “delighted that these plans have been given the go-ahead.” They explained: “We are now in the process of selecting a contractor and hope to start work on this crucial project very soon.” They also added that the new development will bring “many benefits to residents and visitors alike.”
There had been some objections to the development due to worries about its environmental impact and the possibility of increased traffic in the area. However, council planning officers decided the development was necessary and sustainable. The project was backed by a significant majority on the planning committee, and only one committee member voted against the application.
This comes following another recent investment into public transport with a new rail service due to open to commuters in 2023.
This follows a major commitment from Swindon Borough Council to make sustainable transport choices easier for local people, boosting its public transport offering. The development is seen as a vital part of this ambition.
