Calne High Street reopening for one-way traffic today

Wiltshire Council's trialling the idea after some preparation works

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 17th Feb 2025

Calne High Street is reopening to one-way traffic from today (Monday 17th February).

Wiltshire Council's allowing cars southbound from Wood Street to Curzon Street, after completing some preparation works there.

It's a trial, which aims to improve traffic flow and air quality in Calne, particularly on The Square, where traffic often queues.

Some changes have been made to the roads to allow for the one-way traffic trial

The Council will evaluate the impact and gather community feedback for a period of up to 18 months, to decide on making the scheme permanent or reverting to pedestrian-only use.

How will it work for traffic?

From today, traffic will flow south from Wood Street along High Street, turning left on to Curzon Street, while vehicles exiting High Street must turn left.

Westbound traffic from Wood Street on to The Square must turn right at the mini-roundabout on Curzon Street and continue along the A4.

A central tarmac roadway has been installed with temporary barriers for pedestrian safety, with disabled parking relocated to Wood Street.

Some tree planters have also been moved to other suitable areas.

Temporary safety barriers have been installed on Calne High Street while the one-way traffic trial is ongoing

Cllr Nick Holder, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: "We are pleased to have completed the work to open High Street to one-way traffic from north to south.

“Now that the road is reopening, I’d encourage residents to share their feedback on the changes through the experimental temporary traffic order process, as this will help us to refine or adapt the scheme if necessary.

“Our aim for this trial, which will last for up to 18 months, is to improve the air quality in Calne and also help to relieve some of the traffic issues in the town.

“We are committed to creating well-connected communities as part of our Business Plan, and we hope this trial will improve both traffic flows and air quality in Calne."

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