The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, in partnership with Bath & North East Somerset Council, has committed nearly £5.4 million to the Scholars’ Way Scheme, a transformative project focused on enhancing walking, wheeling, and cycling infrastructure across the south of Bath. By improving connections between schools and residential neighborhoods, this initiative aims to promote sustainable, active travel and reduce reliance on cars.
Central to the scheme is the installation of four new pedestrian and cyclist crossings, the improvement of two existing crossings, and the upgrade or addition of four bus stops. The western section of the route, which connects Combe Down Primary School and St Martin’s Garden Primary School via Mulberry Park alongside Bradford Road, began construction in mid-July. The eastern segment, which will serve areas including Oakley, Copseland, Widcombe Hill, Claverton Down Road, Quarry Farm, and Ralph Allen School, is scheduled for development in 2026.
This investment complements wider efforts across England to create a national active travel network, alongside a record £752 million secured for enhanced transport infrastructure in the West of England. Additionally, £4.2 million has been approved for improved walking and cycling routes in and around Bath Quays.
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Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, emphasizes the importance of this project: “We all want better, safer walking, wheeling, and cycling routes for everyday journeys. The Scholars’ Way project, developed in partnership with the local council, will deliver these vital improvements for the south of Bath. Whether it’s families on the school run or commuters heading to work, these changes will make a tangible difference. Active travel not only benefits health but also reduces pollution—something we deeply care about here in the West Country.
“By investing now in essential walking and cycling infrastructure, alongside fixing roads and bridges, we are laying the foundation for a modern, efficient transport system. With the £752 million secured in the Spending Review, the West can leave the slow lane behind and catch up with other city regions—be it through active travel, better buses, trains, or mass transit options.”
Councillor Lucy Hodge, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport Delivery, praised the joint effort: “This significant investment in Scholars’ Way represents a major leap forward in making the south of Bath safer and more accessible. Supported by £2 million match funding from the Clean Air Zone reserve, the project will provide enhanced walking, wheeling, and cycling routes.
“Scholars’ Way will ease the daily journeys of families and young people traveling between schools and homes, while encouraging healthier, more sustainable travel choices. Bath & North East Somerset Council is proud to lead this initiative and remains dedicated to building a connected, greener future for our communities.”
Funded partly by the UK government’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement and secured by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, Scholars’ Way is set to become a cornerstone of Bath’s commitment to active travel and clean, sustainable transportation.