Latest news with #MickGallavin
Yahoo
17-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Major Swindon road to close for three months
A major road is set to close for three months so a gas pipe can be upgraded. Part of a £120,000 project by Wales & West Utilities, the full closure of the A4289 Devizes Road, in Old Town, Swindon, began in June, will come into force from 21 July. The closure, expected to be in place for three months, was approved by Swindon Borough Council. Mick Gallavin, from Wales & West Utilities, said the work was essential to "make sure the gas network is fit for the future". More news stories for Wiltshire Listen to the latest news for Wiltshire The section of pipe being replaced is more than 80 years old and has reached the end of its operational life, the utility company said. In response to the closure, Friends of Old Town, which represents the Old Town Business Association, is holding a series of new summer street events to bring trade into the area. The events will take place on Wood Street on 3, 17 and 31 August and will include funfair rides, outdoor games, music and food. "These Sunday Socials are about turning disruption into something worth coming out for. They're designed to keep the area alive and thriving, not only for traders, but for the whole town," said Kris Talikowski, association chair. The events are partly being sponsored by Wales & West Utilities. Ross Gregory, from the company, said it understood the pressure roadworks can place on local high streets. "That's why we're pleased to support this community-led programme of events, a positive and creative way of keeping Old Town vibrant while we deliver vital gas infrastructure upgrades," he added. Follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630. More on this story Three-month road closure divides opinion Nine roads to be dug up by council in two months Related Internet Links Swindon Borough Council Wales and West Utilities Old Town Business Association
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Long traffic queues as months of roadworks begin on busy road in town
A major roadworks scheme has caused traffic on a busy main road through Swindon. Work has begun on Devizes Road in Old Town as Wales and West Utilities carries out a £120,000 project to upgrade gas pipes in the area between now and the end of September. This will see the utilities firm shut sections of the road in phases, with a full closure scheduled for July 21. On Monday, June 30, there were traffic delays during rush hour caused by temporary traffic lights near the junction with Bath Road. Queues could be seen stretching back along Bath Road. Suggested reading School announces closure amid 'extreme heat' Armed police swarm major road closed for hours Busy road closed as police respond to incident Project manager Mick Gallavin has said Wales and West will work to minimise disruption. He said: 'We have been working with the council to plan these essential works and will be liaising with local traders to inform them of the plans and to answer any questions so that we can minimise disruption. 'We know that working in areas like this is not ideal, but it is essential to make sure we keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future. 'We understand that temporary pavement licences will be in place to support traders throughout the project and we look forward to working alongside the vibrant trading community during the summer months.'
