Bath and North East Somerset Council is moving forward with plans to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety by introducing a new cycle path and raised crossings in the Sydney Road liveable neighbourhood (LTN). The initiative, which began in April 2024 with the closure of Sydney Road to through traffic, seeks to create safer and more pleasant streets by reducing speed and discouraging unnecessary car journeys.
Despite facing opposition and controversy, the council made the Sydney Road LTN permanent in February 2024 after rejecting calls from opposition councillors. A key part of the latest plans is installing a raised continuous crossing at the junction of New Sydney Place and A36 Sydney Place/Darlington Street. This type of crossing, where the pavement seamlessly extends across the road, is designed to improve pedestrian safety and has already been successfully implemented on side roads off the Upper Bristol Road.
In addition, a new shared cycle and pedestrian path along Beckford Road is proposed to connect Sydney Road’s northern end with the Kennet and Avon Canal path. This connection is part of the broader Bath Walking Wheeling and Cycling Links strategy aimed at encouraging active travel throughout the city.
READ MORE: NHS Backs New Walking and Cycling Route Linking Taunton and Wellington
READ MORE: M5 Junction 26 Closed for Three Months as £5.7m Concrete Carriageway Upgrade Begins
While the council plans to formalise the Sydney Road and New Sydney Place LTN on July 3, the project remains contentious. A significant portion of the community has voiced opposition, with a consultation receiving 1,899 responses: 76% were against the overall scheme, while 24% supported it. Support was predominantly from Sydney Road and Sydney Place residents, where 72% approved the LTN, contrasting with 70% opposition from neighbours living within the trial area.
Councillor Joel Hirst, cabinet member for sustainable transport strategy, highlighted the council’s commitment to the project despite the challenges. “We are confident the consultation was conducted fairly and legally, and that the scheme delivers meaningful benefits for residents and those walking or cycling to schools and the city centre,” he said. “This initiative is part of our wider Active Travel Masterplan, and we will continue engaging Bathwick residents as the scheme progresses.”
The council is currently inviting feedback on the proposed raised continuous crossing until 5pm on July 10. Comments are welcomed solely on this aspect, as consultations on the wider liveable neighbourhood and cycle path have concluded.