A Bath business leader has joined others in welcoming news that work is underway to help make Kingsmead Square pedestrian-friendly, as part of ongoing plans to improve the area.
Bath and North Somerset Council announced last week that it intends to continue working on proposals to restrict car movements through Kingsmead Square, to help the area meet its potential as a thriving ‘pedestrian-friendly destination’ for the city.
The announcement comes after B&NES carried out a consultation which highlighted a desire from local businesses to improve the café culture and the potential for change with the layout.
There was also a high level of support from the public for making Kingsmead Square pedestrian-friendly.
Lindsay Holdoway, Managing Director of HPH Commercial Property, which has its head office in Kingsmead Square, said: “I am delighted to hear that B&NES has taken the decision to continue working on this project which could see Kingsmead Square become car free, something which has been in discussion for many years.
“We have long been involved in the idea of creating an alfresco style environment in Kingsmead Square similar to that enjoyed in European cities.
“In 2018 we co-funded an independent transport assessment which further highlighted the opportunities for improving the square if vehicle access was removed.
“We believe there is a huge amount of potential in Kingsmead Square for creating a new dining quarter for Bath city centre, building on the vibrancy that already exists amongst the many successful and thriving business in the area.
“We very much look forward to working with B&NES and other local businesses on the plans and finer details of the project.”
Speaking last week, Cabinet Member for Transport Cllr Mark Shelford said: “I am delighted by the responses we have received and in particular the level of support for the council’s proposals for a pedestrian-friendly Kingsmead Square.
“I will make sure they are considered very carefully before moving on to the next stage.”
Councillor Andy Furse, Lib Dem Councillor for Kingsmead ward, added: “This scheme has been a long time coming and has followed many years of consultation, research and planning.
“Over that time local Councillors have worked with the business community in the square to achieve small incremental improvements like tree lights, new waste bins, introduction of tables and chairs; but this brings us so much closer to achieving a step change by limiting traffic whilst maintaining access”
