Royal Wootton Bassett: Coped Hall road closure begins

Coped Hall in Royal Wootton Bassett is one of the busiest roads in the town, connecting Bassett to Hook, Purton and Lydiard Millicent.

But Wales and West Utilities announced that from Monday, November 18, they would close the road completely for four weeks while mains replacement works are carried out.

Yet as of Monday morning, only temporary traffic lights cause traffic delays in the area, and it is unclear when the full closure will start.

A 7.5 mile diversion route has been put in place until Friday, December 13, but residents have already declared their outrage calling the expected closure "insane" and noting the increased pressure it will put on Swindon Road.

Temporary traffic lights are in place, as residents await the full road closure (Image: Dave Cox) "I travel from Hook to Bassett multiple times each day. This is going to be an absolute nightmare," said Shelley Decker.

"It's really ridiculous. This is unacceptable for residents and will add petrol and time costs to everyone. I strongly object to this closure," added resident Susie Griffin.

James Huynh said: "Four weeks of complete road closure connecting royal Wootton Bassett, Hook, Purton and Lydiard Millicent is insane."

According to Steve Bucknell, Councillor for Royal Wootton Bassett East, the closure is likely to affect access to Marsh Farm Manor Care Home, Marsh Farm Hotel and other nearby businesses.

"There is a likelihood of chaos," he said.

"We all know that people will try to use narrow, unsuitable lanes such as Flaxlands Lane and Hook Street."

The diversion route put in place by Wiltshire Council (Image: One Network)

But a response sent to the councillor by Wiltshire Council states: "All gas companies must replace all their metallic mains within 30 meters of a residential property by 2030.

"The gas main in Royal Wootton Bassett is classified as a Tier One which means it had to be prioritised still further.

"This next phase is a continuation of Wales and West’s current works, and we would ask that residents bear in mind that this work will help them ensure a reliable gas supply to their homes and reduce the risk of leaks/bursts within 30 meters of their property.

"Wiltshire Council needs these works completed and off the network by the beginning of the year as we have other works queued up that need to use this route as part of their diversion route.

"Please be assured, that we understand local concerns and have challenged the need for 4 weeks to undertake the work. I am satisfied that they are unable to reduce the program any further – they would if they could."