The closure of a Bath road to through traffic has earned praise for its positive impact on kids' cycling experiences.
Bath and North East Somerset Council has been implementing changes to several roads near the city center as part of its liveable neighborhoods initiative. The aim of this initiative, also known as low traffic neighborhoods (LTNs), is to reduce through-traffic, improve road safety, and create more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly spaces. One of the recent changes includes restricting through-traffic on Catharine Place, which coincided with a significant kids' cycle ride on Saturday, November 2.
Saskia Heijltjes, a former “bicycle mayor” of Bath and current Green councillor for Lambridge, commended the new through traffic restriction on Catharine Place, stating that it provided a great route for the recent Kidical Mass ride, which advocates for safer streets for cyclists of all ages and abilities.
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Kidical Mass rides are designed to be family-friendly, emphasizing the need for safe cycling spaces. The introduction of collapsible bollards on Catharine Place on November 1 has helped create a safer, quieter, and more pleasant environment for residents and visitors. Additionally, it has established a peaceful route for cyclists traveling between Julian Road and The Circus. Despite the changes, access to homes and businesses by car remains unaffected, albeit requiring the use of alternative routes.
Heijltjes suggested that LTNs offer cost-effective strategies for enhancing road safety, making them a more affordable option than installing zebra crossings or light-controlled crossings. However, she emphasized the need for a circulation plan in Bath to manage and monitor traffic flow, identify key arterial routes, and determine areas where protected infrastructure is necessary for walking, cycling, and public transport.
Recent developments related to liveable neighborhoods in Bath have also brought about significant alterations on Gay Street and the closure of Winifred’s Lane, which has sparked concerns about safety from a local group.
