A vital new road, King Alfred Way, connecting Wantage and Grove officially opened to traffic on 5 December 2024. Previously known as the Wantage Eastern Link Road (WELR), this significant infrastructure project aims to reduce congestion in Wantage town centre, enhance local connectivity, and support sustainable travel.
Improving Connectivity for Wantage and Grove
The new route spans between the A417 east of Wantage and the A338 north of the town, providing a much-needed bypass and direct access to the Kingsgrove housing development, which will deliver up to 1,500 new homes. The road is designed to ease traffic flow within the town centre and surrounding roads, improving travel for both residents and visitors.
A Commitment to Sustainable Travel
A key feature of King Alfred Way is its three-metre-wide shared footway and cycleway, running the length of the road. This path promotes active travel options such as walking and cycling. Additionally, the original entrance to the Kingsgrove development at Elder Way has been designated exclusively for pedestrians, cyclists, and buses, encouraging public transport and reducing car dependency.
Councillor Judy Roberts, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Development Strategy, highlighted the road’s importance:
Wantage is a historic market town that has seen, and will continue to see, significant growth in much-needed new homes and associated community facilities. The need for this scheme was established long before planning approval was obtained, and I am delighted that the entire route is now open.
“King Alfred Way will encourage active travel through the provision of high-quality pedestrian and cycle facilities, together with opportunities for travel by bus. It is also expected to help reduce congestion and noise levels, and improve air quality, within Wantage town centre.
“The opening of the road is reflective of the commitment, hard work and successful collaboration between the county council and St Modwen – together with suppliers working on behalf of both parties.”
A Collaborative Effort
The construction of King Alfred Way was achieved through a partnership between Oxfordshire County Council and St. Modwen, the master developer for Kingsgrove. The project was delivered in three sections:
- Section One (Eastern Segment): Linking to the A417, completed earlier in the project timeline.
- Section Two (Western Segment): Connecting to the A338, completed by November 2023.
- Section Three (Central Section): Bridging the eastern and western arms, constructed by Galliford Try on behalf of Oxfordshire County Council.
Funding for the central section was provided by a combination of Housing and Growth Deal funding, infrastructure grants from Homes England, and Section 106 contributions from developers.
Honouring Wantage’s Heritage
In a nod to Wantage’s royal history, the road has been named King Alfred Way, commemorating King Alfred the Great, who was born in Wantage in 849 AD. The name also reflects the historical significance of the Kingsgrove development, which is inspired by the orchards that once graced the area.
MP for Wantage and Didcot, Olly Glover, expressed his support:
Residents in Wantage and beyond have been eagerly awaiting the opening of this road for some time, following some delays. I am pleased to see it open and hope it will be of benefit to all road users in the coming months and years.”
Community Benefits
The completion of King Alfred Way is expected to bring numerous benefits, including:
- Improved Traffic Flow: Reduced congestion in Wantage town centre and surrounding areas.
- Better Air Quality: Decreased pollution levels due to eased traffic and reduced vehicle idling.
- Enhanced Active Travel: High-quality walking and cycling paths, supporting healthier, greener lifestyles.
- Stronger Community Connections: Easier access to housing developments and local amenities.
Thomas Snell, Development Manager at St. Modwen, added:
We’re incredibly proud to have played a central role in delivering the new road, a project that not only enhances local infrastructure but also supports our growing Kingsgrove community.
“By improving connectivity and prioritising sustainable travel options, this road reflects our commitment to creating thriving, future-ready places where people can live, work, and enjoy their surroundings.”
Officially opened by Olly Glover, MP for Wantage and Didcot and Councillor Iain Cameron, Deputy Mayor of Wantage, the link’s new title – King Alfred Way – commemorates Wantage’s royal history. The name pays tribute to King Alfred the Great, who was born in Wantage in 849, and who is the inspiration for the name of the Kingsgrove community – referencing Alfred’s apple orchards, which once covered the area.
A Bright Future for Wantage and Grove
King Alfred Way is a testament to successful collaboration and a shared commitment to improving local infrastructure. The road not only enhances transport links but also aligns with long-term goals for sustainable development and preserving the area’s rich history.
For further information about King Alfred Way and the Kingsgrove housing development, visit:
This new link road marks a significant milestone in shaping the future of Wantage and Grove, ensuring a seamless and sustainable connection for generations to come.
