New traffic management scheme for two Bath roads

Residents of The Circus have called for a traffic management scheme for some time

An experimental traffic management scheme, which aims to help make Bath a "walkable city", has been announced.

Bath and North East Somerset Council wants to divert traffic away from The Circus and allow it to move more freely on George Street.

Liberal Democrat councillor Roger Symonds said the measures will improve "people's quality of life".

Nearly 1,500 residents and commercial premises have been contacted for their views on the proposals.

The following measures are being suggested for an 18-month trial period:

• No vehicles will be allowed into the northern part of Gay Street at its junction with George Street. Cyclists will be allowed

• On Bennett Street, coaches will be prohibited. Local buses will be permitted

• Along most of George Street, no loading or unloading will apply Monday to Saturday between 07:00 and 11:00, and during 15:00 and 19:00

• A short length of George Street on the north side of the road between Bartlett Street and Lansdown Road will be no loading or unloading at any time

Scheme welcomed

"Residents and visitors should be able to walk and cycle around the city centre in a pleasant environment," added Mr Symonds.

"The proposals form part of the council's commitment to make Bath into a more walkable city. They were also requested by the Circus Area Residents Association (Cara)".

Cara chairman Sally Rothwell said the organisation had been calling for a "change of this kind" for several years.

"This scheme is a welcome measure to address the air quality issue in our neighbourhood," she said.

"It is also good to see that the scheme goes some way to address the flow of traffic along George Street."

More details are available on the Bath and North East Somerset Council website.