The Wichelstowe development in Swindon is one of only three places in the UK to achieve ‘excellent’ Modeshift STARS gold accreditation for the Canalside site.
The award, backed by the Department for Transport, recognises efforts to encourage walking, cycling, and public transport use as alternatives to car journeys.
Rob Powe, development manager at 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.”
Wichelstowe LLP is a partnership between Swindon Borough Council and Barratt David Wilson.
The travel plan features a wide range of infrastructure and schemes to make sustainable travel easier for residents.
Improvements include off-road walking and cycling routes, green spaces, cycle storage, and electric vehicle charging points.
A car club has also been launched, offering residents the option to hire an electric car by the hour.
Swindon Travel Choices supports the scheme by providing practical travel information to new residents and running events such as roadshows, bike maintenance sessions, and guided walks.
Residents are offered taster tickets for the bus service, voucher codes for free rail travel, and a discount at Mitchell Cycles.
There is also a “borrow a bike” scheme, allowing residents to try a pedal or electric bike for six weeks.
During the school summer holidays, a treasure hunt app was introduced to encourage families to explore the area, with the ‘hedgehog trail’ will remain in place and can be expanded as the Wichelstowe community grows.
Councillor Chris Watts, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for 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.”
