Residents have expressed confusion, frustration, and approval after a major scheme to upgrade a roundabout connecting some of the town's busiest roads has been revealed.
As previously reported, Wiltshire Council announced a “significant programme of improvements” on Longfield Gyratory.
The works are expected to begin on Monday, July 21 and won't conclude until April next year.
The project aims to increase capacity on the gyratory to improve journey times for motorists, while also upgrading crossing points to improve safety for pedestrians and support the development of the new Trowbridge leisure centre, which is currently under construction.
Residents took to online groups to discuss the proposals and the effect the plans are likely to have on the town centre.
On a post shared on the public social media page, Trowbridge community hub, a number of residents hit out at the plans.
Plans for 150 homes in town given green light despite dozens of objections
See inside town's massive new Dunelm store
Staff to lose jobs at Great Western Hospital amid cost-cutting scheme
Michael Bailey said: “Trowbridge is like a concrete jungle, highways got it totally wrong I'm surprised the government have given them all these thousands better spent on potholes help the homeless or even put a bypass through Beanacre.”
On the same group, Sean Honeywell replied to another post about the plans: “So a major roundabout with lights on into a minor one with lights on. Am I the only one that sees this will just get gridlocked worse than it does now?”
Meanwhile, Matt Eaton said: “Meh, the real problem is the over-development of the town and lack of travel options other than the personal car. 'Improved traffic flow' is a sticking plaster.
“Stop approving car centric housing developments and facilitate transport options that compete with the car on affordability and convenience. Then we might make some real progress.”
Responding to Wiltshire Council’s social media announcement Tony xxx said: “God preserve us. After the recent street 'improvements' along Manvers St etc, plus all the gas works, it means people in Trowbridge may as well sell their cars as getting anywhere by car for the next year will be a waste of time.”
James Robertson said: “It's fine as it has been for the past 50 years. So good luck to all the car drivers on the most busiest part of Trowbridge.”
Other responses to the plans were more complimentary and saw the works as offering a much-needed improvement.
A spokesperson for Tav’s Cars – a private hire company based in Trowbridge – approved of the plans to introduce a new traffic light, giving a thumbs up to the proposal.
They wrote: “Number 12 is long overdue and something needs to be done about the constant jumping of red lights on the Castle Street junction.”
Geoffrey William also appeared to approve of the plans, commenting: “Looking forward to more cycle lanes and wider footpaths, a few more seats as well maybe.”
Cllr Martin Smith, cabinet member for Highways said: “Improvement works at the Longfield gyratory are set to begin next month, delivering vital upgrades that will increase vehicle capacity and enhance pedestrian crossings.
"These improvements will help traffic flow more efficiently now and in the future, make it safer and easier for people to cross the road and access the new Trowbridge leisure centre, which is currently under construction.
“With a growing population and the continued shift towards electric vehicles, demand on our road network is expected to rise.
"By 2041, we anticipate a 7–8% increase in vehicle numbers compared to today. Enhancing the gyratory’s capacity now is a proactive step to accommodate this future growth.
“The existing traffic signals are also due for replacement, so we’re taking this opportunity to upgrade them as part of the wider scheme.
"This will improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance safety for all road users supporting the town’s long-term development and connectivity.”
Share