CONTENTIOUS plans to remove traffic light controlled crossings in Old Town have been dropped as a result of public opposition.

In an effort to improve the passage of buses from Wichelstowe to the town centre, Swindon Borough Council had been considering replacing the crossings with ‘shared space’ layouts - similar to that at the Regent Circus intersection.

The changes would have seen the removal of existing crossings in Victoria Road near the Post Office, Devizes Road outside Los Gatos restaurant and the High Street opposite the Co-op.

The idea was not well received by residents - with many citing the number of elderly people and children routinely making their way around the area on foot.

There was also a concern that shared space crossings - which seek to use the uncertainty and hesitation they generate as a traffic calming tool - would cause the disabled and visually impaired to feel unsafe.

Residents made these feelings known during the recent consultation into the plans and as a result, a decision has been taken not to proceed.

Instead, the council is to re-initiate previously discussed changes to the Regent Circus bus interchange which it hopes will speed up the passage of buses along their route.

Old Town councillor Nadine Watts (Lab) had previously urged residents to use the consultation as an opportunity to make their voices heard.

Welcoming the re-think, Coun Watts said: “I believe this was the right decision at this time. I am pleased that people took the time to take part in the consultation and their views were listened to.

“Local residents and businesses expressed concerns over the proposed new bus route in Wood Street and also the removal of some of the pedestrian crossings.

“Old Town is changing with the rest of Marlborough Park being built out, as well as the likelihood of new planning applications on the Adver site and Corn Exchange.

“Although it is disappointing that Old Town will not benefit from this funding, I am sure there will be other projects that can be applied for in the future.”

Her fellow Old Town councillor, Claire Ellis (Con), said: “I have worked closely with residents and the Old Town Business Association to make sure that everyone was aware of the initial consultation.

“I am delighted that the Conservative-run council continues to listen to residents and has, in the weight of comments made, shelved the proposals that would have affected Old Town.”

A council spokesman said: “Following feedback to our consultation proposals in Old Town, we are looking to improve the layout of the bus route from Commercial Road through to Princes Street; this proposes to enhance the route by creating a continuous bus lane in the vicinity of Regent Circus.

“This adjustment will provide a more sensible layout permitting more efficient integration with other bus routes, a smoother, less interrupted bus flow and a better passenger experience.

“Following consultation in the next few weeks with both the public and key stakeholders, we will be developing the proposal in more detail.”