Community groups across the Larkhall area have come together to campaign for a safe foot and cycle path between Larkhall Square and the popular Alice Park.
Developer McCarthey & Stone are seeking permission to redevelop the old Harvester site on the junction of Gloucester Road to provide seventy elderly care flats.
A footpath to help access local shops is seen as having additional benefits to the community.
Community group Transition Larkhall have campaigned for many years to improve walking and cycling routes in the area.
Spokesman Dave Fox said: “Local residents, especially those in the new retirement apartments, will have [a] short, traffic free walk into the square to do their shopping in local, independent retailers.
“It will reduce the need to travel by car and so decrease the parking on the often congested Gloucester Road.”
Larkhall independent shops have also supported the need for the footpath.
Larkhall’s award winning butcher said: “We have a thriving shopping area here and to open this up to additional foot traffic and enabling customers the option to walk to us, avoiding the busy London road is encouraging.
Local Skate park campaigner, Joanna Wright added: “This path would be a valuable asset to the Larkhall community from all walks of life, but particularly skateboard users.
“During the consultation it was apparent that local residents voiced concerned about the increase traffic that would be created once the skate park is completed, however this path would open Alice Park up to the youth on the east of Bath giving them a safe route to play.”
Local Mum of two young children, Jess added: “It’s very difficult taking small children by foot as many of the roads are used as rat runs and a safe path would lower anxiety levels and keep us safer.”
Campaigner Rob Appleyard said: “We are talking with the developers and their agents, together with the councils planning department, to see if this much needed path can be realised
“I know the council’s cycling officer is supportive and keen to explore the added option to improve cycling safety.
“We also recognised that it’s very important we listen to, and take seriously, any comments neighbouring residents may have to any proposal for a new path nearby.”