Concerns raised over Bath 'liveable neighbourhood' trial
Residents divided on traffic changes in Lower Lansdown
Last updated 6th Nov 2025
Residents have voiced strong opinions on the controversial Lower Lansdown Liveable Neighbourhood in Bath as councillors prepare to decide on its future.
Introduced in November 2024, the trial scheme involved closing sections of Catharine Place and Winifred’s Lane to through traffic along with modifications to Gay Street.
It is part of Bath and North East Somerset Council’s initiative to encourage safer and quieter roads with fewer cars, in line with other similar projects in the area.
But opinions remain split. Last week, members of local residents’ groups warned councillors that the traffic restrictions have failed and have led to increased congestion elsewhere.
During the meeting with councillors, the Heart of Lansdown Conservation Group, which opposed the introduction of the scheme, spoke out, stating: "The Heart of Lansdown Conservation Group, Sion Hill/Summerhill Road Residents’ Association, and Sion Hill Place Residents’ Association representatives all considered the Winifred’s Lane ETRO to be a failure."
Figures commissioned by the group reportedly showed that the closure of Winifred’s Lane led to a 700% increase in vehicle numbers on a road near a junior school. Concerns were also raised about heightened traffic volumes alongside other schools and on specific roads described as hazardous.
Concerns over Winifred’s Lane and Gay Street changes
The closure of Winifred’s Lane prompted significant backlash shortly after bollards were installed. Confusion around access led some drivers to reverse out of the narrow street, while others questioned its impact on overall traffic safety.
Meanwhile, changes made to Gay Street prevented vehicles from travelling directly between Queen Square and the Circus. Representatives from the Marlborough Lane/Marlborough Buildings Residents’ Association argued that rerouted traffic resulted in busier roads near their homes.
Mixed public opinion
Despite criticism, the scheme has supporters in the area. One local resident addressed councillors earlier this year, acknowledging improvements to road safety in her neighbourhood. She highlighted past dangers encountered while walking with her daughter and dog, stating: “We and our daughter were almost hit multiple times while walking to and from school. We didn’t walk our dog during school run times because we were concerned for her safety due to some near misses.”
Waiting on a decision
Although the trial formally ended in April 2025, the council has yet to confirm when a decision will be made on whether to make the scheme permanent.
A Bath and North East Somerset Council spokesperson confirmed that the results of a consultation carried out during the trial period until April will be considered. However, senior councillors have reiterated that consultations are not referendums.