Bath is set to undergo a major transformation in its transport network over the next decade with the launch of the Movement Strategy for Bath. This ambitious plan outlines the city’s vision for sustainable and efficient travel, aiming to improve how people and goods move while creating a better living environment for residents, workers, and visitors alike.
Currently, transport accounts for 36% of greenhouse gas emissions in Bath and North East Somerset. Bath itself is ranked as the UK’s fifth most congested urban area. With population growth expected to continue, daily trips could increase by 21,000, representing a 7% rise if no action is taken.
Regional congestion costs the West of England economy around £800,000 daily, due to lost productivity and longer, unreliable journeys. The new strategy proposes targeted steps to combat congestion, improve air quality, and support a thriving economy by enhancing public spaces and promoting sustainable transport options.
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Key measures from the 15 levers outlined in the strategy include:
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Introducing 20mph speed limits on select city centre roads to improve safety and encourage walking, cycling, and wheeling.
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Upgrading prominent public spaces such as Queen Square, Milsom Quarter, Parade Gardens, and Bath Riverline to make them more inviting.
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Implementing community-led initiatives to make residential streets safer and more conducive to active travel.
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Integrating greenery and planting within street improvement projects to boost biodiversity and climate resilience.
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Creating bus lanes and priority routes on major city routes to improve journey times and reliability.
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Delivering the Active Travel Masterplan for safer walking, cycling, and wheeling routes throughout Bath.
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Developing an Interchange Plan to improve Park & Ride facilities and encourage shifts to sustainable transport around the city’s periphery.
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Expanding Resident Parking Zones (RPZs) and establishing a comprehensive Parking Strategy to reduce car dependency.
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Crafting a Coach Strategy to support tourism and major events such as Bath Rugby matches and the Christmas Market.
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Enhancing signage and wayfinding to better direct vehicles and promote sustainable travel modes.
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Establishing a Freight Consolidation Strategy to minimize heavy goods vehicle traffic on unsuitable streets.
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Exploring an expanded Clean Air Zone to reduce emissions further.
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Considering a workplace parking levy to encourage greener commuting.
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Collaborating with employers, universities, and schools to support sustainable travel initiatives and cleaner school journeys.
Councillor Joel Hirst, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport Strategy, emphasized the city’s commitment: “Bath faces significant transport challenges, from congestion and air quality to accessibility and climate change. While we’ve made progress, there’s more to do. This strategy is our blueprint for a fairer, greener, and better-connected Bath.”
The council is keen to engage the public through a consultation running until 28 November, including drop-in events. Residents, businesses, and visitors are encouraged to review the strategy and provide feedback, shaping a transport network fit for Bath’s future.
The Movement Strategy envisions a Bath where people can travel easily and safely by foot, bike, bus, or car, fostering a walkable and wheelable city with faster, more frequent bus services and less general traffic on unsuitable streets.
Short-term improvements are planned by 2027, with full implementation stretching through to 2035, reflecting the council’s commitment to creating a sustainable, accessible transport future for Bath.