Purpose

This report outlines the consultation responses for active
travel improvements along London Road, Devizes.  The route has been identified as a priority link
in the adopted Devizes Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure
Plan (LCWIP).  The report summarises
consultation responses undertaken between June and August 2025 and
seeks approval for the way forward. 

Content

I confirm the decision set out in the attached
report that
 
(i)           
Officers are
instructed to undertake a feasibility study with the aim of
identifying a deliverable and affordable new pedestrian and cycle
bridge adjacent to the existing canal bridge on the A361 London
Road, Devizes.  
(ii)         
Following the
identification of a new pedestrian and cycle bridge, implement the
shared use scheme in full as proposed. 
(iii)        
To inform stakeholders
and public of the decision. 
 
This decision was published on 19 November
2025 and will come into effect on 27 November 2025..
 

Reasons for the decision

The consultation has highlighted
a number of issues, not least the
public’s concern over shared use paths (SUP).  The councils preferred option would be a
segregated facility.  However, there is
insufficient highway space to accommodate such
infrastructure.  The estimated use of
the proposed SUP falls within the current acceptable guidance
identified in LTN1/20.  Delivering the
scheme will help the council meet its health, climate and transport
objectives.  However, it is clear from
the consultation responses that requesting cyclists to dismount at
the canal bridge is not supported. 
Therefore, a solution to the constraints at the canal bridge is
required before the scheme can be implemented. 

Alternative options considered

The consultation with stakeholders and
the public has raised significant issues that need to be
considered. The options going forward are set out below;
 
     
i.        
No further action due
to the consultation response opposing the fundamental principal of
shared used paths.
    
ii.        
Approve the
development of only the walking and wheeling elements of the
proposal.
   
iii.        
No further action
until a deliverable separate foot/cycle way bridge can be
identified at the canal bridge on London Road. Once identified
implement the shared use scheme in full as proposed. 
  
iv.        
Implement the scheme
as proposed whilst concurrently developing options for a new
pedestrian and cycle bridge over the canal.