Wiltshire MP hosts sustainable transport roundtable to improve links for rural communities
Sarah Gibson pushes for accessible and environmentally-friendly travel networks
MP Sarah Gibson has convened a major Sustainable Transport Roundtable to tackle the transport challenges faced by the region’s rural communities.
The MP for Chippenham, Corsham, Calne, Lyneham and Royal Wootton Bassett has described local links as "patchy" and "limited", insisting her constituents deserve better.
The event, held in Wiltshire, brought together local politicians, transport providers, and campaigners to explore practical solutions for creating better links between towns and villages.
The meeting focused on delivering an accessible, integrated, and environmentally responsible transport network, aiming to make travel more convenient and affordable for residents.
The discussion highlighted the current difficulties for rural communities where patchy bus services and limited rail options force many people to rely on cars or miss out on essential opportunities such as work, education, and social connections.
Attendees emphasised that addressing these transport needs is vital for economic growth, thriving high streets, access to skills, and progress towards net-zero emissions.
Speaking after the roundtable, Sarah Gibson MP said: “People in every part of Wiltshire deserve transport that is convenient, affordable and reliable. Better links between our towns and villages unlock opportunities for jobs, education and thriving local economies.”
She highlighted the pressing need to address the barriers affecting rural areas: “Rural communities have been held back for too long by patchy bus services and limited rail options. It is clear that there is real determination from across the board to change this.”
Ms Gibson also thanked contributors for their involvement: “I am grateful to all who contributed to such a constructive and forward-looking discussion, and I look forward to turning this collaboration into real, tangible progress for residents across Wiltshire.”
Paddy Bradley from TransWilts praised the event’s collaboration and ideas:
“There were a wide breadth of organisations and local politicians represented at this roundtable. We had thoughtful contributions, and some realistic proposals were discussed in this first meeting. Not only could these ideas deliver better sustainable transport, but economic development in Sarah’s constituency, and across Wiltshire.”
Martin Holliss from the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust shared updates on their active travel initiative as part of the organisation’s ‘Towpath Challenge’ plan.
“Our plan includes providing an active travel link from Royal Wootton Bassett to Swindon, which could bring significant economic, health, and wellbeing boosts to that corner of Wiltshire,” Holliss said.
He also highlighted the important role of volunteers in maintaining and improving Wiltshire’s towpaths and urged locals to get involved:
“The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is nothing without our volunteers. If you want more active travel options in Wiltshire, get involved as a Wilts & Berks outdoors ‘muddy boots’ (or even home-based ‘clean shoes’) volunteer!”
The roundtable underscored the need for joined-up thinking to deliver sustainable transport options that benefit all Wiltshire communities, boosting local economies while promoting environmentally responsible travel.