Wichelstowe travel plan achieves gold standard

The Wichelstowe development has achieved the ‘excellent’ Modeshift STARS travel plan accreditation for the Canalside site - also known as ‘Modeshift STARS Gold’.

The Modeshift STARS accreditation is a national Department for Transport-approved scheme, and has been awarded to Wichelstowe LLP, a joint venture between Swindon Borough Council and Barratt David Wilson.

The travel plan sets out a range of sustainable transport infrastructure and promotional measures to help residents make journeys without the need for a car. The development has been putting in off-road cycle and walking paths, green spaces, electric charging points and cycle parking. This summer, a car club was launched for residents to hire an electric vehicle by the hour as an alternative to owning a car.

To help promote the infrastructure, Swindon Travel Choices provides travel information to residents when they first move in. Swindon Travel Choices has also created the new Wichelstowe walking magazine and puts on a variety of events from travel roadshows, bike maintenance classes, to guided walks and rides.

As part of the travel plan, residents can apply for taster tickets to try out the bus service and get voucher codes for free rail travel. There is also a resident discount at Mitchell Cycles and a “borrow a bike” scheme to try a pedal or electric bike for six weeks.

During the school summer holidays, a treasure hunt app was developed to encourage families to explore the area and find various items, with small prizes being offered. The 'hedgehog trail' will remain in place and can be expanded as the Wichelstowe community grows.

Rob Powe, Development Manager from 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, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, 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.”