More than £450,000 is being invested by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority to improve safety and accessibility along on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, between Staple Hill tunnel and Bitton Station.
The path is one of the busiest traffic-free stretches in the country, playing a vital role as a commuting route, leisure destination, and wildlife corridor. With an average of more than 1,100 cyclists and pedestrians using this section daily, the number is expected to increase as housing and employment in the area grows.
The funding will be used to deliver:
· Installation of CCTV cameras between the Staple Hill tunnel and the former Mangotsfield Station, to help tackle crime and anti-social behaviour
· Nine pinch points along the route will be improved, understanding the needs of Disabled people as well as families using non-standard wheelers
Plans for a carefully designed lighting scheme continue to be developed, to be installed between Siston Hill roundabout and Warmley Waiting Room, improving visibility while respecting local wildlife.
The plans have been shaped following engagement with the Bristol Cycling Campaign and local campaign groups, and a consultation held by South Gloucestershire Council last year.
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, said:
“The Bristol and Bath Railway Path isn’t just one of the most-used traffic-free routes in the West Country, it can be one of the best in the whole country. With the council, police, and other partners, we’ve listened carefully to people’s experiences and this investment responds directly to concerns raised.
“By improving lighting, safety and accessibility, we’re making it easier for people to choose sustainable travel options and to do so with confidence. This is especially important for women and girls, as we can feel more vulnerable using the path.”
South Gloucestershire Council Cabinet Member for Planning, Regeneration, and Infrastructure, Councillor Chris Willmore, said:
“We are delighted to have successfully secured this funding to deliver improvements along the South Gloucestershire section of the Bristol and Bath Railway Path. The route is incredibly popular, and this initial investment will allow us to make the path safer and more accessible, particularly by addressing long‑standing pinch points and installing new CCTV cameras to help deter crime and anti‑social behaviour. These upgrades will give people greater confidence to walk, wheel and cycle, and will help ensure the path continues to serve our growing communities for many years to come.”
Louisa Dale, England Director at Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, said:
“Our organisation pioneered the very first miles of the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, so we’re thrilled to see further investment here. By making these improvements, the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority is tackling the barriers that stop people from walking, wheeling, and cycling. These works will make it easier for people who live in deprived areas, those with disabilities, young and older people and women to get involved, putting this people powered highway on track for a great future.”
Clare Moody, Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, said:
“People have been clear about the safety concerns they face on this well used route. These improvements will help users feel more confident, alongside the recent increases in the local neighbourhood policing team that I have prioritised and secured government funding to deliver. I’m grateful to all the partners working to make our public spaces safer.”
The improvements are being funded from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement secured from government by the combined authority for investing in transport improvements across the region, and the Economic Development Fund which supports capital infrastructure to unlock job creation.
Next week, a new Transport Vision for the West of England will be shared, setting out more details about the authority’s goals for the future, working with local councils and partners.
