Consultations on two active travel schemes in Bath begins

Two new proposed walking and cycling schemes could be brought to Bath following a public consultation on the plans to encourage active travel.

Held by Bath & North East Somerset Council, residents will have until August 8 to have their say on the proposed schemes which will improve walking and cycling routes in the city.

The plans include new crossings, improved footways and a new bridge to help people travel by foot or cycle more easily.

Cllr Sarah Warren, Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Climate and Sustainable Travel, said: ‘Active travel schemes are about making walking and cycling for short journeys safer and more pleasant, whilst cutting emissions and protecting people’s health. We are committed to providing a realistic alternative to travelling by vehicle in and around the city, in particular, giving our young people the opportunity to travel to school independently. These two schemes are a next step in making this a reality.

‘Safe and accessible infrastructure allows people to make travel choices that are emissions free and help tackle the climate emergency, but these routes have to be practical for people to use in their everyday lives. That’s why it’s important for communities to help shape the designs, so please have your say in our consultation.’

One scheme, Scholars’ Way, will see the introduction of cycle routes connecting residential areas to educational establishments, including between Claverton Down, Combe Down and Odd Down.

An existing path will be upgraded to a hard surface to improve conditions for cyclists and pedestrians and a direct cycle route has been proposed for Ralph Allen School, with a new zebra crossing set to be built by the school.

An existing zebra crossing on Claverton Down Road is due to be upgraded, while new cycle routes with painted markings and off-road sections have also been planned on Church Road and Combe Road.

The second scheme, Bath Quay Links, will incorporate the new bridge over the River Avon at Bath Quays into existing walking and cycling routes.

The bridge, set to opened by the end of this year, will improve connectivity between the riverside, Bath city centre and the Oldfield Park area.

New cycle lanes separated from pedestrians and traffic and new crossings across the A367 will be built, as well as new cycle lanes on the A36 and two new toucan crossings on Lower Bristol Road.

The council and West of England Combined Authority have identified both schemes as priority projects, with the projects set to go ahead if they receive positive feedback at the consultation.

Photo by Lāsma Artmane