A scenic new boardwalk weaving its way through Wichelstowe has been officially opened, providing locals with a fresh way to enjoy the area’s central green space — all while keeping one eye on nature.
Stretching half a kilometre across the floodplain between Middle and West Wichel, the three-metre-wide structure links key parts of the growing community, connecting bridges near Orchards Rise to the new Canalside District Centre car park. For residents, it’s more than just a footpath — it’s a welcome addition to an area that’s fast becoming one of Swindon’s most ecologically diverse corners.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Placemaking and Planning, joined Daniel Pavely, Project Director for Wichelstowe, to cut the ribbon and officially open the route. The pair praised the boardwalk’s potential to bring people together and provide a safe, scenic space for walking, wildlife-watching, and relaxation.
“It’s great that we’ve created such a cool new feature in Wichelstowe,” said Cllr Strinkovsky. “It’s a perfect place to enjoy a stroll and spot the area’s rich wildlife.”
The boardwalk itself is built from recycled plastic, designed to withstand the wet conditions typical of the lower land it crosses. Solar-powered lights line the route, each fitted with specialist ‘bat hats’ to reduce light pollution and limit disruption to the resident bat population.
Adding to its charm is a decked viewing platform, looking out over one of the site’s ponds — an ideal spot to pause, reflect, and take in the surroundings. This pond, known locally as Kingfisher Island, now features nesting tunnels designed to encourage kingfishers to return to the area, and early sightings suggest it’s working.
Daniel Pavely commented: “The boardwalk is a brilliant new feature at Wichelstowe, providing a safe and scenic route through one of our most ecologically rich areas. We’ve worked hard to create something that’s both practical and environmentally sensitive.”
The path also includes two new footbridges, several stretches of hoggin paths, and passes two recently restored attenuation ponds — all designed with biodiversity in mind.
This latest addition forms part of Wichelstowe’s wider ambition to create a sustainable and connected community on Swindon’s southern edge. Eventually, the boardwalk will become a key link in a longer green corridor running the length of the development.
Later this summer, a new play area — aptly named The Boardwalk Play Area — will open to the south of the pond, offering younger visitors a chance to enjoy the green space in their own way.
More details on current and future housing phases — including Canalside, Orchards Rise, Orchards View and Wichel Fields — can be found online via the Wichelstowe website.
