Part of the Fleming Way redevelopment area is being opened to the public before Christmas.

A new walkway has been set up where the old underpass at the end of the Parade used to be, in order to give pedestrians a better view of the £33m regeneration scheme and provide a faster route to the bus and train station.

It is scheduled to open on Thursday, December 5, along with the crossing across Fleming Way at Whalebridge.

A Swindon Borough Council spokesperson said: “The route will take people through the heart of the new road.

“Colas, the main contractor, has been working with its subcontractors to make sure this route is open in the run-up the Christmas period to support local businesses and shoppers.

“As a result of this new route being made available, the existing temporary walkaway along the side of H&M will close.

“We’re now building in this area which will be home to a new toilet block with Changing Places facilities.

“There will be a short period of disruption as the paving area alongside of the health centre is upgraded.

“We’d like to thank residents, businesses and visitors for their continued patience whilst we work to improve the town centre and achieve a modern and accessible location.”