Bath Traffic Plan Faces Challenge After Councillor’s Decision

Bath councillors are challenging a road change made permanent. Bollards were placed on Sydney Road in April as part of a “liveable neighborhood” trial. Councillor Mark Elliott decided to keep the change. Twelve other councillors are contesting this decision. They are from various parties, including Independent, Labour, Conservative, and Green.

A council panel will now debate the change. They have the power to ask Mr. Elliott to reconsider. Colin Blackburn is leading the opposition. He emphasizes the need for a fair, democratic process. Closing Sydney Road reroutes traffic. The cars now use Beckford Road instead. Blackburn is concerned about safety and pollution in the area. He feels the process was not handled democratically.

The councillors think the decision affects too many people to be made alone. They believe more are harmed than helped. Therefore, they argue for a key council decision. A public survey collected 1,899 responses. 76% opposed the road change, while only 24% supported it.

Among Sydney Road residents, 72% favored the bollards. However, 70% of those on nearby roads disliked them. 83% of people outside the immediate area opposed the change. A Beckford Road resident addressed the council. She reported increased traffic, congestion, and near-accidents. She questioned the council’s motives.

Mr. Elliott said opinions became more positive during the trial. Many people still opposed the plan, however. The trial followed years of resident requests, he said. He will review the objections for factual support. Also, a planned network of safer walking and cycling paths were mentioned.

The challenge was signed by Shaun Hughes, Alan Hale, and Gavin Heathcote. Liz Hardman, Lesley Mansell, and Chris Dando also signed the call-in. Tim Warren, Sarah Evans, Grant Johnson, Robin Moss, and Joanna Wright completed the list.