Malmesbury Mayor officially opened new footbridge delivered by Wessex region

A new footbridge connecting the town of Malmesbury to a local housing development was officially opened this week.

Representatives from leading housebuilder, Persimmon Homes Wessex, were joined in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its Backbridge Farm site by Malmesbury town Mayor, Cllr Gavin Grant, and fellow Wiltshire councillor, Martin Smith, to mark the significant milestone.

The footbridge installation is a substantial community benefit and connects the town to the development by providing a direct walking and cycling route across the River Avon.

The bridge provides a crucial link between Malmesbury and the Backbridge Farm development, which will eventually comprise 200 high-quality homes, a village green, pocket parks, play areas, and attenuation ponds, all designed to enhance the lives of residents and the broader local community.

Malmesbury Mayor, Cllr Gavin Grant, who officially opened the bridge, said:

"I was delighted to join Persimmon to officially open the new footbridge linking the Backbridge Farm development and the town of Malmesbury.

"The bridge is a positive addition to Malmesbury. I commend Persimmon Homes Wessex for its delivery onsite and their commitment to our town."

Commenting, Managing Director of Persimmon Homes Wessex, Julian Roper, said:

“As part of our vision at Backbridge Farm, we’ve sought to deliver a community-building approach ensuring that the needs and desires of Malmesbury residents are at the forefront of the development process.

“We hope the footbridge will provide a vital connection point for residents and visitors alike, with its design offering a convenient walking and cycling route as well as an active and healthy lifestyle option, reducing the reliance on vehicular transport.”

Cllr Martin Smith, the Wiltshire councillor for the Sherston Division where the Backbridge Farm development is situated, said:

“As the local councillor for the Backbridge Farm site, I’m pleased to witness the opening of this vital link between the town and the new development.

“This connection will benefit both new and existing members of the Malmesbury community and supports local sustainability and active travel goals."

The Backbridge Farm development offers a range of two, three, and four-bedroom homes, bringing new housing options to the picturesque market town of Malmesbury in Wiltshire.

Situated in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside, Malmesbury boasts a rich history dating back to the Iron Age, featuring honey-coloured 17th and 18th-century buildings, a magnificent Abbey, and the oldest hotel in England.

With amenities, shops, pubs, eateries, and schools all within walking distance of Backbridge Farm, residents can enjoy a vibrant town with a welcoming community and family-friendly facilities.