Bath and North East Somerset Council has issued an apology for the disruption caused by the closure of Manvers Street in Bath’s city centre, which began last week and is expected to last up to six months. The closure, necessary for urgent structural repairs to prevent the road collapsing into the vaults beneath, has severely impacted public transport routes, complicating travel to the Royal United Hospital (RUH) for many residents.
Manvers Street’s closure has forced the diversion or shortening of 26 bus routes, with several no longer reaching Bath Bus Station. Councillors warn this has left patients and hospital visitors from the east side of the city struggling to reach the RUH, often requiring long walks across the city centre between bus services—a challenge for those receiving medical care. Joanna Wright, Green councillor for Lambridge, emphasised the public health implications: “The walk suggested between bus services is not feasible for some people who are receiving medical attention.” She added that despite the council not managing the bus services directly, it must ensure better outcomes given the strong partnership with the RUH.
In addition to Manvers Street, Bridge Street has been closed since the same day for three weeks to install a segregated cycle lane, disrupting eight more bus services and compounding travel difficulties.
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Councillors have also criticised the council’s communication about the closures. Saskia Heijltjes, Green councillor for Lambridge, noted, “Many people still have no idea of this closure and the impact this will have over the next few months on their journeys. There is no information at Bath Spa Train Station or Bath Bus Station.” The council acknowledged feedback and has increased signage throughout the city.
Lucy Hodge, the council’s cabinet member for sustainable transport delivery, defended the critical infrastructure work. She explained that Manvers Street is built over historic vaults and ageing structures requiring reinforcement with foamed concrete to ensure long-term safety and resilience. “We live in a beautiful heritage city but unfortunately that means dealing with old infrastructure,” Hodge said. She apologised for the inconvenience and stressed the work is a long-term investment in Bath’s infrastructure, promising it would be completed before the Bath Christmas Market begins in November.
While the restoration continues, Bridge Street is expected to reopen later this month, though some ongoing work will persist. The council assured residents and visitors that it is actively monitoring the situation and will continue to improve communication and minimize disruptions where possible.