Gay Street traffic restrictions

The Gay Street through-traffic restriction is being installed under an experimental traffic regulation order (ETRO) for a minimum of six months from summer 2024. 

It is one of three linked restrictions in the Lower Lansdown ETRO trial, which is part our Liveable Neighbourhood programme. Its aim is to prevent motorists from using residential streets in the area as a short cut to and from the A46/M4.

During the trial, we will monitor its impacts and seek residents’ views in a six-month public consultation.

Overview of the Gay Street trial

Under the trial, northbound motorists will no longer be able to enter Gay Street at its junction with George Street. Two-way traffic will still be permitted on Gay Street, but with entry via The Circus only. Motorists can leave the area via The Circus or by turning left into George Street, but they are no longer permitted to travel straight on towards Queen Square. These new restrictions do not apply to cyclists. 

You can view more details using the map and annotations below.

Trial details

The following annotations correspond to the numbered map above:

1. We will install a south-facing 'no entry except cycles' sign at the junction of Gay Street with George Street to prevent northbound motorists from entering Gay Street
2. We will install a north-facing ‘no right turn except cycles’ sign on Gay Street at the junction with George Street to prevent southbound vehicles from travelling straight ahead to Queen Square.
3. We will remove one parking space, south of the disabled bay on Gay Street, to provide access for larger vehicles and space to turn.
4. A temporary island build-out will narrow the junction at the foot of Gay Street, creating a short stretch of cycle lane and an informal crossing point (with dropped kerbs and tactile paving).
5. Gay Street will remain two-way with access to all homes and businesses from The Circus. Alternatively, motorists can exit the area by turning left into George Street.
6. The existing ‘no right turn’ sign on George Street warns westbound motorists that it is not possible to turn right into Gay Street.

You can view more details of the whole scheme, including the Winifred's Lane and Catharine Place trials, by downloading our simplified technical drawings.

Find out more

For more detail on the trials, you can:

• Read an overview of the Lower Lansdown ETRO trial and have your say on all three linked trials
• Read more about the linked Winifred's Lane trial
• Read more about the linked Catherine Street trial

You can contact us and talk to an advisor or request this information in an alternative format by emailing us at LNs@bathnes.gov.uk, or calling 01225 394025 and requesting a call back from a team member.