Bath is set to introduce a unique touch to its cycling infrastructure with the installation of “tulip wand” bollards along a new cycle lane in Royal Victoria Park. These tulip-shaped separators, the first of their kind in Bath, aim to visually enhance the route while providing a safe, flexible boundary between cyclists and motor traffic.
The scheme is part of the broader Weston to Bath city centre cycle lane project, designed to improve cycling conditions in the hilly Somerset city. Unlike the flat Netherlands, Bath’s terrain presents challenges, but the new lane will capture a Dutch-inspired feel through its distinctive tulip bollards.
The cycle lane will run contraflow from Park Lane to the Victoria Obelisk on the west and south sides of the road encircling the park. It will feature green tarmac and “eco-sensitive” lighting, further enhancing safety and visibility. In addition, pavements will be resurfaced, new pedestrian crossings will be installed, and six new disabled parking spaces created. However, parking bays adjacent to the proposed cycle lane will be removed.
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These flexible bollards are designed to bend on impact and then return to shape, reducing risks commonly associated with more rigid traffic posts. This thoughtful design underlines the council’s commitment to safety and sustainability.
The council anticipates commencing construction this autumn, pending the outcomes of ongoing statutory consultations, which are open until August 20 and 27. Previous consultations last year revealed divided public opinion, with approximately half of respondents objecting to the cycle lane mainly due to concerns over lost parking spaces.
Council cabinet member Lucy Hodge stated, “We have listened to feedback and refined the plans, retaining vehicle access while delivering better facilities for people walking, wheeling, and cycling through the park. The improvements will create safer crossings, better accessibility, and a more welcoming environment for everyone.”
Complementing the Royal Victoria Park works, cycle lane upgrades are also planned for the A36, covering Beckford Road and Sydney Place. This will include a new cycle crossing at the canal entrance, improved shared-use paths, and enhanced pedestrian crossings.
Additionally, the Somer Valley Links project will commence improvements in Bear Flat. These include a shorter pedestrian crossing on Wells Road, an extended northbound bus lay-by, an improved bus stop equipped with seating and real-time information, raised side-road crossings, and a revitalised public space. The initiative aims to enhance travel between Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Bath, and Bristol.
Ms Hodge added, “We want to make it safer, easier and more pleasant for people to get around, whether they are walking, wheeling, cycling or using the bus, and these schemes will help achieve that. They will improve everyday connections and, at Bear Flat, help buses run more reliably.”
She also reassured residents, saying, “We will do our best to reduce disruption to traffic while these are installed and want to thank people for their patience as these improvements are put in.”
Those interested can respond to the statutory consultations regarding the Royal Victoria Park plans before the deadlines in August.