THE underpass linking Swindon town centre to the outlet village has been closed.

The Bristol Street tunnel is owned by Churchward PLC, which was served with a winding up order on 13 June. But they were awaiting further details from PwC (formerly PricewaterhouseCoopers) who have been appointed as special managers to assist in the dealings with the company.

The sudden closure has left pedestrians having to find an alternative route that doesn’t involve using the tunnel, which has added an increased time to people’s journeys.

Users of the underpass has been in contact with the Adver to express their concerns.

Roshni Kerai explained: This seems such a shame, as it's an important transport link for many people to the train station and town centre.”

Des Morgan, of Haydon Wick, said: “It’s going to destroy that route between the town centre and the outlet.”

Adam Philips said: “This underpass is used by so many people a day and now it has been shut without any notice, disrupting everyone’s commute. They need to reopen it as soon as possible.”

The Adver understands that Swindon Borough Council are trying to come to an agreement with the owners to reopen it for public use.

A Swindon Borough Council spokesman said: “Unfortunately, the Council does not own the Bristol Street Tunnel, but we are working closely with site partners to broker an agreement with the owners to reopen it for residents and visitors as quickly as possible.”