This consultation outlines our proposals to introduce cycle routes that connect residential areas with educational establishments in Bath. This collection of cycle routes has been named Scholars' Way.
The first phase of Scholars' Way includes a collection of smaller schemes which will provide a cycle route between Claverton Down, Combe Down and Odd Down.
Proposals for connecting the valley floor and Claverton Down are not included in this consultation because we have separately commissioned a citizens' panel to consider these plans.
The proposals set out in this consultation are designed to make it safer and easier to use active modes of travel for shorter journeys within Bath. This includes walking, cycling, and wheeling, for example using a wheelchair.
If we receive enough positive feedback and the schemes go ahead, they will help us to achieve the following goals:
- encouraging people to use more active modes of travel for shorter journeys
- improving public health and wellbeing
- reducing transport emissions
- facilitating longer term lifestyle changes
The wider council policy context
Tackling the Climate and Ecological Emergency is one of two core policies outlined in our Corporate Strategy 2020-2024. Our goal is to be carbon neutral by 2030.
Encouraging active travel will play a key role in working towards this target. We also hope it will improve public health and wellbeing.
Our second core policy is to give you, our residents, a bigger say about the things that affect you. Responding to this consultation will give you the opportunity to make your voice heard.
Background to the scheme
Scholars' Way has been developed following previous transport studies in Bath including:
- Getting Around Bath Transport Strategy for Bath, 2014
- The Transport Delivery Action Plan for Bath (2020 Onward); Phase 1 – Current and Future Report, 2020
- Updated Transport Delivery Action Plan; Journey to Net Zero: Reducing the Environmental Impact of Transport in Bath
Regional transport strategies
At a regional level, the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) has worked to create a vision for transport in our region. This work includes strategies and delivery plans for schemes that promote active travel at a local level which include the following:
- Joint Local Transport Plan 4 (JLTP4)
- The West of England Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan 2020-2036 (LCWIP)
Funding
A series of schemes that have been grouped together to form Scholars' Way have been identified as a priority project by the Council and WECA.
If we receive enough positive feedback following this consultation, we will progress the Scholars' Way project and seek funding from WECA.