Views are being sought on an active travel scheme for Bath which would see the installation of more than 6km of cycling routes, with the loss of around 200 parking spaces.
How some of the changes could look | Image © B&NES Council
Bath & North East Somerset Council is inviting comments from residents, businesses and visitors on the proposed Bath Walking, Wheeling and Cycling Links (BWWCL) scheme.
Comprising of four routes, the scheme hopes to broaden active travel options across the city, creating more than 6.2km of cycling routes through advisory lanes, dedicated spaces and quiet routes.
It will also provide walking and wheeling improvements, such as upgraded crossings and more convenient and safer options.
The BWWCL scheme is part of the ongoing City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS) programme, designed to connect key areas within Bath through a network of dedicated cycle lanes, advisory routes and improved pedestrian paths.
The four routes included in the scheme are:
- Weston to Bath City Centre
- Links to Royal United Hospital
- Oldfield School to Newbridge Hill
- City Centre to Kennet & Avon Canal
The project would increase Bath’s cycling network by more than 10 per cent.
It would see the removal of around 193 on-street car parking places being lost for dedicated cycling routes.
The proposed routes would integrate with broader transport projects such as the Bath City Centre Sustainable Transport Corridor, the A4 Bath to Bristol Project, the Liveable Neighbourhoods programme and the National Cycle Network (NCN).
A map of the proposed routes in Bath | Image © B&NES Council
Two of the routes were identified in the West of England Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) and the emerging Active Travel Masterplan.
The council wants to gather feedback from the community on how the routes will affect residents and businesses.
The scheme proposes changes to the allocation of road space, including a reduction in on-street car parking in some areas.
A public consultation is running for six weeks (until Friday 29th November), with drop-in events taking place.
Drop-in events will be held at the following locations:
- Bath Spa University Locksbrook Campus – 4th November 2024 (3pm to 7pm)
- Sydney Gardens Pavilion, Bath – 11th November 2024 (2pm to 5pm)
- Brunswick Room, Guildhall, Bath – 12th & 13th November 2024 (3pm to 7pm)
Councillor Sarah Warren, deputy leader and cabinet member for climate emergency and sustainable travel, said: “We are committed to making Bath a place where walking, wheeling and cycling are safe, accessible, and convenient for everyone.
“The Bath Walking, Wheeling and Cycling Links scheme is a key part of our ambition to create healthier, more connected communities, but it’s essential that we hear from the people who live and work here.
“Your views will help us ensure that we get the balance right and design routes that work for everyone.”
Liz Eyles, director of campus life at Bath Spa University, said: “The Bath Walking, Wheeling and Cycling Links scheme is an important project that promises to improve movement across the city through sustainable and safe means.
“We continually look to improve student connection with the local areas and consider investment in this area vital for wellbeing and experience.”
The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority is responsible for distributing the UK Government’s City Regional Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) funds to viable schemes in the region.
Its members, including the West of England Mayor and leaders from the Mayoral Combined Authority’s three constituent councils: Bath & North East Somerset Council, Bristol City Council and South Gloucestershire Council.
To find out more about the individual routes, and to take part in the consultation, visit https://beta.bathnes.gov.uk/bath-walking-wheeling-and-cycling-links-scheme
