The Canal & River Trust is proposing improvements to the Kennet & Avon Canal towpath between Sydney Wharf Bridge and Bath Top Lock.
The trust has submitted a consultation request to Bath & North East Somerset Council for the 254-metre stretch, which currently has an unbound stone surface.
The plan is for a tar spray and chip surface on this stretch, which will have a width of approximately two metres.
The works will tie into the existing surface beneath Sydney Wharf Bridge (Bridge 188), and the bottom of the steps at the towpath access point from Bathwick Hill. Stone blocks at the base of the steps will be taken up and re-bedded to provide a level surface.
The trust says that following the existing layout, the pathway will be resurfaced to tie into the top of the steps leading to Rennie Close/Lime Grove Gardens. The works will stop at Bath Top Lock (Lock 13).
The canal bridge at Bathwick Hill and Bath Top Lock are both Grade II listed, as are the cottage and footbridge next to Bath Top Lock.
The trust says: “It is acknowledged that replacing the existing unsealed stone towpath surface with a sealed surface represents a slight change to the character of the conservation area.
“It is considered that this work will present a positive enhancement to the character and appearance of the conservation area.
“The proposed work is a continuation of a previously approved phase carried out via the Bathwick Towpath Improvement Scheme in 2020.
“The colour and texture of the spray finish shall match that of the previously approved scheme which has been well received by the local authority project partners and by the local community.”
The planning application reference is 25/03728/CONSLT. The deadline for comments is 17th October.
