Milestone reached on Wilts & Berks Canal extension at Wichelstowe
First stretch filled with water as construction begins on new sections
Progress on the Wilts & Berks Canal extension at Wichelstowe has reached a significant milestone, with the first 0.5-kilometre phase to the east of Mill Lane now filled with water. This marks an exciting step in the multi-million-pound project, which is being delivered by Wichelstowe LLP – a partnership between Swindon Borough Council, Barratt Homes, David Wilson Homes, and Redrow South West.
Favourable weather earlier in the year supported much of the progress, as high-quality clay from the Wichelstowe site was used to create a puddle lining, forming a robust waterproof barrier. Recent autumn rains helped fill the canal, and landscaping along the new stretch has now been completed.
Although the towpath alongside the filled section remains closed, a temporary route is planned to open next year through nearby housing construction areas.
Attention has now turned to the west of Mill Lane, where work has begun on a new road bridge to accommodate a further extension of the canal. Engineers will also install a canal tunnel under the road, similar to the structure at Foxham Way near Waitrose.
As weather conditions improve in 2026, the canal will extend further south before turning east to meet the newly filled sections. The final phase will connect all sections of the canal beneath Mill Lane.
Dan Pavely, Wichelstowe’s Project Director, highlighted the challenges of creating the clay-lined canal:
“Reaching this stage is a major achievement for the whole project team. Building a canal is incredibly weather-dependent and using a traditional clay lining demands both precision and the right conditions. Having high-quality clay available on site has been a real advantage, allowing us to create the canal using local materials.”
Once completed, the extended canal will enhance walking and cycling routes alongside the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust taking on its long-term management. It is also expected to transform Wichelstowe into a vibrant waterside destination.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking at Swindon Borough Council, said:
“The canal is a defining feature of the development and seeing this new section full of water really brings the vision to life. The next phases will create even stronger connections across the community and will encourage walking and cycling, while providing new areas for people to unwind and enjoy themselves. It’s an exciting moment for Wichelstowe and for Swindon as a whole.”
Chloe Ford, Swindon Branch Chair of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust, said the milestone would boost their community events:
“Once complete, the extended stretch will allow us to run longer Dragonfly boat trips, including our hugely popular Santa Experiences each December. We look forward to the day when the new sections join up and become fully navigable.”
The canal is part of the broader Wichelstowe development, which will deliver 3,000 new homes, schools, and community facilities over 20 years.
The 250-hectare site on the southern edge of Swindon will feature 12km of nature trails, play areas, 200 acres of open space, and waterside walks. Excellent links to Junction 16 of the M4 and Swindon train station provide easy access to Bristol and London.
With progress continuing, the extended canal promises a brighter future for recreational space and sustainable travel at Wichelstowe.