Haydon Wick Parish councillor Leigh Jackson said he initially alerted authorities to severe flooding on 11 November 2025, when a drainage failure left the pedestrian route completely submerged and unsafe.
He said discussions have taken place between councillors and council officers since then. In mid-December, the matter was escalated to Chris Watts following conversations with ward colleagues.
On 22nd January 2026, Stanka Adamcova shared an update on social media setting out the council’s position at that time. She wrote that the authority had been “actively coordinating resources” and was waiting for a specialist team to become available to carry out the work.
The update stated that repairs were being targeted “toward the end of next week”, indicating an expected timeframe in late January. It also said extra signage would be installed to help maintain safety and reduce disruption.
As of 13th February, Cllr Jackson said the drainage system has not been fully restored. Although flood water has subsided and some activity appears to have taken place, he reported that debris remains in the underpass and that only temporary barriers are in place.
He also claimed there is no clear safety signage currently installed and that barriers are being moved, allowing access despite what he described as ongoing hazards including open drains and potential trip risks.
Cllr Leigh Jackson, of Haydon Wick Parish Council, said:
“It is now 13th February. Since 30th January, I have written twice via email to the three Haydon Wick ward councillors and have not yet received a response.
“Each time I visit the area I put the barriers back in place. This area safety needs improvement as there are open drains and therefore potential trip hazards.”
He is urging Swindon Borough Council and Haydon Wick ward councillors to address the situation as a matter of urgency, put appropriate safety measures in place and ensure the underpass can safely reopen.
Swindon Borough Council has been contacted for an updated response on when the specialist works are expected to be completed and whether further safety measures will be introduced.
