Inside Salisbury: News in Brief
Bite-sized news about Salisbury
Dear all,
We are introducing our News in Brief newsletters so you can keep up-to-date with the latest news quickly and easily while on the go.
Let us know what you think.
Annette J Beveridge
Planning a GWR Christmas Getaway?
No mainline trains will be running to or from London Paddington after Christmas Eve and until Monday, December 30 to allow work on the New HS2 station at Old Oak Common in west London and Network Rail improvements to overhead wires and signals.
Railway passengers should also be aware of significant travel changes between Friday, December 27 and Sunday, December 29.
For those travelling through Westbury, note that from Friday, December 27 to Thursday, January 23 engineering work will affect services.
The track between Salisbury and Westbury will be closed to enable track upgrades close to Westbury station including maintenance of the Sherrington viaduct. A replacement bus service or the diversion of trains will be in place.
Passengers are advised to check their journeys before travelling with Great Western Trains here.
Christmas Health Tips
Wiltshire Council is sending out health tips every other day in the run-up to Christmas and is advising people to stay mindful of their health and wellbeing. Simple actions such as getting vaccinated, stocking up on medicines for the Christmas season, washing hands and being careful of sexual health will be included.
Wiltshire Local Plan
Wiltshire Council has submitted its Local Plan to the Secretary of State for an independent examination.
More than 10,700 comments from thousands of respondents were received during the consultation in 2023. These responses, along with the Local Plan, will now be considered by the independent Planning Inspectorate.
Leader of Wiltshire Council, Councillor Richard Clewer, said: “This is our most ambitious Local Plan to date. In addition to identifying suitable sites for housing and employment, it introduces bold sustainability policies. All new developments will be required to achieve zero-carbon standards, enhance biodiversity, and include cycling and walking connections.”
Highways Investment - Signs and Posts
A multi-million-pound investment to improve the county’s highways has led to the installation of approximately 80 per cent of the 960 new signs.
The new signs vary from single-post warnings and regulatory signage to larger, map-style advance direction signs. They are made from a composite substrate rather than aluminium sheeting, which makes them more environmentally friendly. Old signs and used posts will be recycled.
Cabinet Member for Highways, Councillor Nick Holder, said: "Road signs may seem like a small part of the picture, but their importance cannot be overstated. Proper, clear signage ensures safer navigation, reduces confusion and enhances the overall experience for all road users. It’s these kinds of improvements that demonstrate our commitment to making Wiltshire a safer, more accessible, and attractive place to live, work, and visit.”
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