Campaigners have labeled the trial liveable neighbourhood (LTN) scheme in Bath as the city’s most problematic — and possibly the worst in the UK. Bath and North East Somerset Council is considering making permanent its experimental traffic restrictions on Gay Street, Catharine Place, and Winifred’s Lane, implemented in November 2024.
Liveable neighbourhoods aim to reduce through-traffic in residential areas, creating safer, quieter spaces for pedestrians and cyclists. However, the Heart of Lansdown Conservation Group, representing local opposition, sharply criticizes the Winifred’s Lane element of the scheme. This steep, narrow lane was formerly a one-way bypass of a tricky section of Sion Road until bollards closed it off as part of the trial.
In an open letter, the group described the scheme as “deeply unpopular and empirically unsafe,” highlighting council data showing 72% opposition within the trial area and 84% opposition overall. They warned that traffic near local junior schools has surged, with an average of 1,401 additional vehicles daily — equating to over half a million extra cars annually passing school zones since Winifred’s Lane closure. These increases raise serious safety and health concerns for children.
The group argues that treating all three road restrictions as a single LTN is “arbitrary.” They demand Winifred’s Lane be delisted from the scheme and reopened to traffic.
While council figures were released in December ahead of a decision by cabinet members Joel Hirst and Manda Rigby on the scheme’s future, the group claims crucial data related to Winifred’s Lane are missing or flawed. They contend pedestrian numbers have declined and cycling rates are inaccurately reported. Summarizing their position, they warn: “These are the worst results of any Bath ETRO, possibly of any UK LTN.”
By contrast, the Gay Street and Catharine Place schemes received more positive feedback. Gay Street’s overhaul saw 74% support within the trial area and 37% overall, while Catharine Place attracted modest support, though with limited public response.
Consultants Arcadis reported decreases in traffic on Cavendish Road but significant rises on Sion Road, near Kingswood School, with vehicle journeys up by over 100% in February and March 2025. The conservation group’s own consultants found even sharper traffic spikes, claiming a 720% increase on Sion Road in March. Arcadis dismissed these figures as unverifiable, emphasizing their own comprehensive monitoring should take precedence.
The council has proposed a revised parking plan to improve visibility and create passing places on Sion Road if the scheme becomes permanent — an effort to address mounting congestion.
As the council approaches its decision, local campaigners continue to press for the reopening of Winifred’s Lane, citing wide opposition and concerns over traffic displacement and school safety.