Cheap Street in the centre of Bath could be closed for a number of months due to planned works as part of the implementation of new security measures.
Cheap Street in Bath | Photo © Colin Peachey / Shutterstock.com
Residents, businesses and Blue Badge holders are being advised about the upcoming closure, and have been invited to a webinar on Thursday 11th August.
They will be able to discuss the works taking place and planned access arrangements with Bath & North East Somerset Council’s project team and contractor.
As utilities at the entrance to Cheap Street are being diverted, contractors will need a full road closure with no access for any vehicles at any time.
It is anticipated the closure will start later in the summer and run through into the winter, though dates for the closure have not yet been confirmed.
Blue Badge holders will still be able to access and park in Cheap Street, Westgate Street and Upper Borough Walls but will need to enter via Westgate Buildings and exit via Upper Borough Walls.
When the works start, the diversions will be clearly signposted, and marshals will be available to do their usual security checks and help people at Westgate Buildings.
Pedestrian access will be maintained for people who are walking or wheeling and the works in footways will be subject to pedestrian controls to facilitate works and keep people safe.
The local authority has said that the construction works will not prevent traders, or their customers, from accessing premises.
Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport, said: “We are holding a webinar so residents, business owners and Blue Badge holders who will be affected by the temporary closure, can speak to the project team.
“We will do all we can to minimise disruption and to make sure people are aware businesses are open as usual during this phase of the works.”
Due to the unique nature of the city and highway construction, there are a number of challenges within the planned security improvements programme.
These include working above existing vaults and cellars, working in close proximity to utility apparatus and maintaining access to the restricted streets for exempt vehicles.
The council has carried out investigative works but until contractors get on site the construction timeline is estimated and completion dates can’t be guaranteed.
Those wishing to attend the webinar should register here: https://bathnes.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_RCpI0FsqQa-8jbejdhJW9g.
