Communities urged to make “big choices” on Bath to Bristol transport plans
The West of England Combined Authority has launched a consultation on early-stage plans to cut traffic and improve air quality along the busy A4 between Bath and Bristol.
Those who live, work or travel along the route, says West of England Combined Authority, have an opportunity to make “big choices” on ideas to introduce cycling and walking routes in West of England towns and areas along the A4, “while bearing in mind that all the projects will bring with them trade-offs and compromises, and that nothing is set in stone.”
The consultation runs to 1 October. Overall ideas up for grabs aim is to give better options “to choose to travel sustainably – whether that’s by bus, bike, walking and if you use a wheelchair or mobility scooter – wheeling.”
One project which will require “very serious consideration” about the real trade-offs involved are plans to transform the current Bath Road in Brislington and Totterdown - with cycle and bus lanes and where hundreds of plants and trees could be planted, if the plans go ahead.
Other transport ideas locals are being asked for their views on include changes to the Keynsham by-pass, new junctions, plus potentially new cycle and bus lanes all the way between West of England areas like Totterdown to those like Saltford, as well as other ideas to be considered by those who live and work in the communities along the Bath to Bristol routes.
Residents first gave their views on the 'Bath to Bristol Corridor’ project in 2021 and this feedback has shaped updated plans. Responses from residents showed some of their key priorities included more reliable bus services, greener spaces and cleaner air.
The plans are part of a wider £540 million programme from the West of England Combined Authority to improve public transport across the region. The project is being delivered in close partnership with Bath and North East Somerset Council, and other partners.