Wiltshire Town Faces Severe Traffic Congestion: LIVE Report

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Post on May 14, 2025

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Wiltshire Town Faces Severe Traffic Congestion: LIVE Report

Devizes gridlocked as roadworks and increased tourism cause chaos.

Devizes, Wiltshire, is currently experiencing severe traffic congestion, causing significant delays and frustration for residents and visitors alike. Our live reporter on the ground describes scenes of standstill traffic across several key routes, with tailbacks stretching for miles. This unprecedented level of congestion is attributed to a confluence of factors, including ongoing roadworks on the A361 and a surge in summer tourism.

Roadworks exacerbate existing issues

The ongoing roadworks on the A361, a major artery through Devizes, are significantly impacting traffic flow. These works, initially scheduled for six weeks, have already experienced several delays, further exacerbating the problem. Our reporter notes that the temporary traffic management systems seem inadequate for the volume of traffic attempting to navigate the affected area. This is leading to long queues and significant delays during peak hours and even outside of them.

Tourism boom adds to the pressure

The recent surge in tourism, fueled by the town's charming historical sites and picturesque surroundings, has added further pressure to the already strained road network. Devizes, a popular destination for day-trippers and holidaymakers, is struggling to cope with the influx of vehicles, especially during weekends. Parking spaces are filling rapidly, forcing drivers to circle endlessly in search of a spot, adding to the overall congestion.

Local businesses impacted

The traffic chaos is not only inconvenient for commuters and visitors but is also having a significant impact on local businesses. Shop owners and restaurant managers report reduced customer numbers due to the difficulty of accessing the town centre. Delivery drivers are also facing considerable delays, impacting businesses relying on timely deliveries.

Council response and potential solutions

The Wiltshire Council has been contacted for comment and is reportedly reviewing the situation. Potential solutions being considered include temporary traffic diversions, improved signage, and an investigation into the effectiveness of the current traffic management strategies employed during the A361 roadworks. However, a long-term solution to address the growing traffic problem in Devizes requires a more comprehensive approach involving improved infrastructure and potentially exploring alternative transportation options.

What you can do

• Check traffic updates before traveling: Utilize live traffic apps and websites to plan your route and avoid congested areas.
• Consider alternative routes: If possible, explore alternative routes to avoid the affected areas.
• Use public transportation: If available, consider using public transportation as a more efficient means of getting around.
• Be patient: With the ongoing roadworks and high tourist numbers, patience is key.

Stay tuned to this page for ongoing updates on the traffic situation in Devizes. We will continue to provide live reports and updates as the situation unfolds. We will also bring you the latest information from Wiltshire Council regarding potential solutions and any changes to the roadworks schedule. #DevizesTraffic #WiltshireTraffic #Roadworks #Tourism #TrafficCongestion #A361

(This is a sample news article. For a truly live report, real-time data would need to be integrated.)