SIGNS are out warning drivers, cyclists and pedestrians that work is to begin soon to improve the public realm and road network at the junction of Church Street and Union Street in Trowbridge.

Traffic in Trowbridge town centre is expected to be disrupted for 12 weeks from Monday, October 31 to mid-January 2023 while the works take place.

Temporary traffic signals will be installed to manage traffic safely while the works will predominantly take place during the daytime.

Councillor Dr Mark McClelland, Cabinet Member for Transport, Waste, Street Scene and Flooding, said: “We’re really pleased that the first of these five schemes to improve walking and cycling access in and around the town centre will be starting soon.

“We appreciate there will be some disruption, but every effort will be made to keep this to a minimum wherever possible.

“One of our key priorities is to create vibrant and well-connected communities so we are aiming for the remaining four schemes to come forward in phases next year.

“These include Wicker Hill and Hill Street junction, including part of Fore Street, the Manvers Street and Church Street junction, Castle Street and Roundstone Street.”

The works are the first of five town centre accessibility improvement schemes being funded from the £16.3 million investment in Trowbridge town centre via the government’s Future High Streets Fund.

The aim is to improve the ease and safety of pedestrian crossings as well as improve walking and cycling routes in five key locations in the town centre.

Further improvements being made include widening the footpaths on Union Street and Church Street, along with an informal crossing on Church Street outside of St James Church and a pedestrian refuge island crossing facility on Church Street close to Church Street Car Park.

The footpaths will be resurfaced with paving slabs and kerbing renewed to match the existing arrangements in Church Street near to the Vergers Cottages.

Some signage and street furniture will be removed to tidy up the area and make it more accessible, and the street lighting will be improved with heritage style lighting being used throughout.

An area will also be provided outside of St James’ Church to accommodate wedding and funeral cars.

Wiltshire Council will work closely with the town council, local traders and the church to ensure disruption in the lead up to the festive period is minimised. All local amenities in this area will remain open and accessible during the construction period.