A flagship Swindon housing development has become one of only three in the country to earn our Excellent Modeshift STARS Accreditation.
The Wichelstowe development, led by Wichelstowe LLP, a joint venture between Swindon Borough Council and Barratt David Wilson Homes, has been recognised for its forward-thinking approach to sustainable transport and community design.
A vision for greener journeys
The Wichelstowe travel plan outlines a wide range of sustainable transport infrastructure and promotional measures to help residents make everyday journeys without relying on a car.
Key features include:
- Extensive off-road walking and cycling routes connecting the development with local amenities
- Electric vehicle charging points and secure cycle parking
- A car club, offering residents the option to hire an electric car by the hour instead of owning one
- Green spaces and accessible pathways designed to encourage walking and outdoor activity
Encouraging active and sustainable travel
To help residents make the most of these options, the Swindon Travel Choices team has delivered community initiatives, including:
- A welcome pack with local travel information for new residents
- The launch of the Wichelstowe Walking Magazine
- Events and activities such as travel roadshows, bike maintenance workshops, and guided walks and rides
- Taster tickets for bus and rail journeys, plus discount vouchers for local cycle retailers
- A ‘Borrow a Bike’ scheme, allowing residents to trial a pedal or e-cycle for six weeks
During the summer holidays, families were encouraged to explore the area through an interactive ‘Hedgehog Trail’ treasure hunt app. An initiative designed to promote active exploration and a sense of community. The trail will remain in place and expand as the neighbourhood grows.
Rob Powe, Development Manager from Wichelstowe LLP said:
‘It’s been a pleasure to be involved in this year’s sustainable transport initiatives, especially welcoming families to the hedgehog trail and seeing them enjoy the new boardwalk at Wichelstowe. This award highlights the progress we’ve made so far, but we’re excited about upcoming projects like extending the canal towpath and path network. We hope residents and visitors continue to embrace the active lifestyle being shaped here, choosing walking and cycling as their preferred way to travel through the site.’
Councillor Chris Watts, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, said:
‘We’re thrilled that Wichelstowe has achieved the ‘Excellent’ Modeshift STARS accreditation. This recognition reflects our commitment to create a community where walking, cycling and greener travel options are accessible and encouraged. It’s a fantastic example of how thoughtful planning and partnership can improve residents’ quality of life while reducing our environmental impact.’
Setting the standard for sustainable development
The Wichelstowe development demonstrates how embedding sustainable travel into the fabric of a community can deliver long-term environmental and social benefits.
As one of only three housing developments in the UK to achieve Modeshift STARS Excellent Accreditation, Wichelstowe sets a benchmark for future developments looking to combine quality of life with sustainability.
