The bus gate on Camden Road is cancelled due to intense local backlash over access concerns
Twenty-four residents associations disagreed with the plan. The Fairfield Park Health Centre also had concerns. It said access to the surgery would be severely impacted. The council listened to these worries and announced the plan is now cancelled.
Mr. Guy wrote to local residents, saying they listened to resident concerns. Walcot ward councillors also had concerns. Consultants presented a draft plan on January 28th. It was for more public engagement in February. It aimed to prioritize buses and stop cut-through traffic.
The plan had other problems across a wider area. Mr. Guy stopped this specific idea. Now, they will look for a broader solution. This solution will address traffic concerns in the area including Walcot, Larkhall, and Lambridge. Through-traffic avoids London Road now, which is still a big problem for residents.
Mr. Guy wants to work with residents, businesses and elected members to find a solution. They need external funding to make it happen. The council wants a wider liveable neighborhood plan to fix traffic in eastern Bath. It could take years to get funding.
The West of England Combined Authority gave funding in 2024 for Bath’s liveable neighborhood program. The council planned to spend £9.45 million on 11 schemes. The bus gate was part of the original business case, and public engagement was to start this year.
Mr. Guy said they are still committed to the policy, but too much misinformation spread, creating confusion among residents. Liveable neighborhoods aim to improve streets so they are safer and greener living spaces, and the council wants to encourage public transport. Bus gates can help buses run well.
Liveable neighborhoods have benefited residents by reducing traffic. They have improved walking and cycling routes. They also feel a stronger sense of community. The council wants to improve streets for a sustainable environment. Any solution must meet the needs of the community.