The Wichelstowe development has achieved ‘excellent’ Modeshift STARS Gold accreditation for its Canalside site. The award, backed by the Department for Transport, recognises outstanding efforts to promote walking, cycling and other forms of sustainable transport.
The accreditation was awarded to Wichelstowe LLP – a joint venture between Swindon Borough Council and Barratt David Wilson.
The travel plan for the site includes off-road cycle and walking routes, green spaces, electric vehicle charging points and secure cycle parking. A car club was also launched this summer, allowing residents to hire an electric vehicle by the hour.
To support the infrastructure, Swindon Travel Choices provides residents with travel information when they move in. The initiative also runs bike maintenance classes, guided walks and rides, and publishes the Wichelstowe walking magazine.
Other schemes include:
Taster bus tickets and voucher codes for free rail travel
Discounts at Mitchell Cycles for residents
A “borrow a bike” scheme offering free six-week trials of pedal or electric bikes
Over the summer, a treasure hunt app encouraged families to explore the area. The ‘hedgehog trail’ created for the project will remain in place and may be expanded as the community grows.
Rob Powe, Development Manager at Wichelstowe LLP, said: “It’s been a pleasure to be involved in this year’s sustainable transport initiatives, especially welcoming families to the hedgehog trail and seeing them enjoy the new boardwalk at Wichelstowe.
“This award highlights the progress we’ve made so far, but we’re excited about upcoming projects like extending the canal towpath and path network.
“We hope residents and visitors continue to embrace the active lifestyle being shaped here, choosing walking and cycling as their preferred way to travel through the site.”
Councillor Chris Watts, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport at Swindon Borough Council, said: “We’re thrilled that Wichelstowe has achieved the ‘Excellent’ Modeshift STARS accreditation.
“This recognition reflects our commitment to create a community where walking, cycling and greener travel options are accessible and encouraged.
“It’s a fantastic example of how thoughtful planning and partnership can improve residents’ quality of life while reducing our environmental impact.”
