New group aims to boost Chippenham's image

8:32am Tuesday 30th December 2008

A new community group has been set up to transform Chippenham into a more attractive and continental-style hot spot.

The New Chapter group, an offshoot of the Chippenham Area Partnership, is made up of several different working parties looking at things such as transport and traffic, the town centre, tourism and improving the river side.

Chairman of the group John Clark said: “The role of New Chapter is to get things done to improve Chippenham.

“Our action teams will work with the vision group, the councils, the Civic Society, private businesses, developers, in fact anyone willing to help make things happen.

“This can be by supporting, cajoling, reinforcing, pulling people together, or by starting new initiatives.

“At the end of the day it is about defining projects and managing them.

“We all believe that Chippenham has fantastic potential with its location, its planned growth, and its river and natural assets.

“I urge people to come and join us to make a difference.”

The group has already drawn up a list of the projects they want to get off the ground in the new year.

These include regenerating the riverside with more cafes, boats and events, making more of a focal point of the iconic Western Arches, introduce low cost and modern parking facilities and improve walk and cycleways in the town.

Perhaps their biggest project is to completely transform the town’s road system and replace most of the traffic lights and barriers to introduce a more continental-style street scene.

The group already has members of Chippenham Town Council, Civic Society and Chamber of Commerce involved in the working parties and is hoping to work closely with the new unitary council when it comes into force in April. 3.

Anyone interested in joining any of the working parties should log on to the group's web site by clicking on the link on the right or e-mailing Mr Clark by clicking here.

How can the group brighten up Chippenham? Make your suggestions below