The first of hundreds of upgraded bus shelters planned across Wiltshire have been installed in Calne as part of a £2 million improvement programme.
The new shelters, located on New Road and Curzon Street, are the first to be installed under a countywide scheme that will see bus shelters, poles, flags and timetable information upgraded over the coming years.
Funded by the Department for Transport, the programme aims to improve bus infrastructure across all 18 community areas in Wiltshire, with Calne among the first to benefit.
The new shelters have been chosen for their durability and long lifespan. They feature a corrosion-resistant finish designed to withstand the elements, are easier to clean and help resist graffiti. Solar-powered lighting has also been installed to improve efficiency and reliability.
Accessibility has been a key consideration, with high-contrast handles and rails to support visually impaired passengers, while the modular design means each shelter can be adapted to suit its location. Wiltshire Council said it worked with town and parish councils to ensure the shelters complement the character of each area.
Wiltshire has more than 4,900 bus stops and around 800 bus shelters, which are owned and maintained by a range of organisations including the council, bus operators and town and parish councils.
The council said it is prioritising locations where improvements will have the greatest impact, including replacing infrastructure that is no longer fit for purpose and improving passenger safety.
Councillor Martin Smith, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: "We're really pleased to see the first of our new bus stops now in place in Calne. This marks an important milestone in our wider programme to improve bus infrastructure across Wiltshire.
"Good-quality, well-maintained bus stops play a key role in making public transport more accessible and attractive, helping to connect communities and support more sustainable travel choices.
"This investment directly supports our priorities in the Our Wiltshire Plan by helping to create stronger, more connected communities and making it easier for people to travel more easily.
"By improving the quality, accessibility and reliability of our bus infrastructure, we're also helping to reduce our environmental impact."
Wiltshire Council is working with contractor Bus Shelters Ltd to deliver the upgrades over the coming years, with the aim of improving the passenger experience through better infrastructure and clearer travel information.
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