Park users to benefit from Stanton access road upgrade

The work includes rebuilding and resurfacing the length of the road. Improvements will also be made to the verges.

The work is likely to take four weeks to complete and so, unfortunately, there will be disruption to park users.

Pedestrian access to the park will be maintained but there will be restrictions on vehicles using the road at times during the work. Visitors to the park are encouraged to park at Stanton House Hotel which has kindly made its car park available to park users during the period of the works.

The upgraded access road is the latest in a series of improvements the Council is making to its major parks.

Councillor Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for the Town Centre, Heritage and Culture, said: “Stanton is a beautiful park, with a mix of woodland, lake and field walks. It is Swindon’s most dog-friendly park, with several fields fenced off to allow dogs off the lead when sheep aren't grazing.

“I visit the park regularly with my dog, Juno, and as most people who visit will know, the access road is tortuous and leaves a lot to be desired. Once complete, there will no avoiding potholes, no waiting on gravel and a fit-for-purpose road that will be used for decades to come.

“As Cabinet Member responsible for our country parks, I have pushed for Swindon's first ever four-year Park Improvement Plan to demonstrate our commitment. I have already highlighted plans to invest more than £1m in Coate Water and Lydiard but we must not forget other parks like Stanton and Mouldon Hill. Sorting this road was the obvious immediate priority for Stanton, with Cllr Maureen Penny also very supportive, and there will be more news about park investment soon.

“We are really lucky to have some fantastic parks in Swindon and we must keep investing in them so local people and visitors continue to enjoy them.”