Progress on the major extension of the Wilts & Berks Canal at Wichelstowe has reached a significant milestone, with the first 0.5-kilometre phase to the east of Mill Lane now filled with water and construction beginning on the next section.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky and representatives from the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust joined the Wichelstowe project team to see the progress of this multi-million-pound project, which is being delivered by Wichelstowe LLP – a joint venture between Barratt Homes Bristol, David Wilson Redrow South West and Swindon Borough Council.
Much of the recent progress has been achieved thanks to favourable weather earlier in the year. Clay dug directly from the Wichelstowe site has been worked into a puddle lining, providing a robust waterproof barrier, while the hot, dry summer enabled the canal to take shape. The autumn rain helped fill the canal and the landscaping has now been completed.
The towpath alongside the new stretch will remain closed until next year, when a temporary route will open through the nearby housing construction areas.
Attention has now turned to the west of Mill Lane, where work has begun on constructing a new road bridge that will allow the canal to be extended by a further 0.5 kilometres. As part of the replacement of the temporary construction road, engineers will install a new canal tunnel under the road, mirroring the structure at Foxham Way near Waitrose.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking at Swindon Borough Council, said: “The canal is a defining feature of the development and seeing this new section full of water really brings the vision to life. The next phases will create even stronger connections across the community and will encourage walking and cycling, while providing new areas for people to unwind and enjoy themselves. It’s an exciting moment for Wichelstowe and for Swindon as a whole.”
Chloe Ford, Swindon Branch Chair of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust, said: “The craftsmanship involved in creating a canal corridor is truly impressive and this milestone is a testament to the dedication of everyone on the project. Once complete, the extended stretch will allow us to run longer Dragonfly boat trips, including our hugely popular Santa Experiences each December. We look forward to the day when the new sections join up and become fully navigable.”
As weather improves in 2026, the canal will be extended further south before turning east to stop just short of Mill Lane. The final phase will see the new canal sections join together beneath Mill Lane.
Dan Pavely, Wichelstowe’s Project Director, said: “Reaching this stage is a major achievement for the whole project team. Building a canal is incredibly weather-dependent and using a traditional clay lining demands both precision and the right conditions. Having high-quality clay available on site has been a real advantage, allowing us to create the canal using local materials.
“We’re now excited to move on to the western extension and the construction of the new road bridge, which marks the next major step towards creating a vibrant waterside destination at Wichelstowe.”
Once complete, the canal will become a key recreational feature for residents and visitors, with the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust set to take on its long-term management. The extended route will enhance walking and cycling links and contribute to the wider programme of waterside, green and open spaces being delivered across development.
Wichelstowe will deliver 3,000 new homes along with new schools and community facilities over 20 years. The 250-hectare site on the southern edge of Swindon will include extensive open spaces, nature conservation areas, playing pitches and allotments.
As part of this neighbourhood residents can enjoy 12km of new nature trails, play areas, 200 acres of open space and canal walks. There’s also a range of schools for children of all ages within easy reach. Junction 16 of the M4 and Swindon train station are both within a ten-minute drive, providing easy access to Bristol and London.
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