Ongoing roadworks have had a major impact on Wanborough businesses, but it is hoped things will improve now that the total closure of the major route into the village is set to be lifted. 

Landlords from Wanborough's many pubs had spoken to the Adver about a drop in trade since Wanborough Road closed several months ago so that work could be carried out in preparation of the Redlands Farm housing development.

As the major route into the village from Swindon, many have chosen not to travel to Wanborough, which has had an almost disastrous effect as one pub - The Cross Keys - has had to close already.

To alleviate this, Swindon Borough Council and Ridgeway Ward councilor Gary Sumner had arranged with developers Conlon to temporarily reopen the road during the Christmas period to allow local businesses to benefit from the festive trade. 

However, even this planned reopening has proven problematic as it was due to happen on November 7 but was delayed. 

But Swindon Borough Council has now announced that the road will reopen on Monday, November 14. 

In a post on social media, the local authority said: "Conlon Ltd has confirmed that Wanborough Road will reopen on Monday."

"The road will be under two sets of two-way traffic lights (near the Redlands Grove entrance and by Poplars Daycare Centre) until work continues on 16 January 2023 to enable the new Redlands housing development as part of the New Eastern Villages.

"This includes the installation of new highway drainage, street lights, and constructing a new footpath on Wanborough Road."

Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for strategic infrastructure, highways and transport, councillor Gary Sumner, said: “Despite the challenges of uncharted services and extensive archaeological remains, Conlon Ltd and the archaeological contractor have been able to reopen Wanborough road in time for the Christmas period.

"People and businesses alike will benefit from easier access in the area in the run-up to the festive season.

“I’d like to thank Conlon for accommodating my request.”

Coun Sumner has previously criticised housing developers Bellway for not doing enough to help local businesses deal with the consequences of its work, which will form part of the New Eastern Villages expansion

Speaking to the BBC, he said: "They have sat on their hands. We've chased them and been told they will discuss it. I think they've behaved awfully and they really should be doing more for local businesses. They should feel awfully embarrassed."