New sustainable transport proposals for A4 Bath to Bristol unveiled - here's everything you need to know

New updated sustainable transport proposals for along and around the A4 between Bath and Bristol have been published today by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA), with the support of Bath & North East Somerset and Bristol City councils.

The project is funded by the UK Government through the Department for Transport’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement, which was previously secured by WECA.

It follows previous proposals for Keynsham bypass and the section of the A4 between Emery Road and Hicks Gate roundabout, and the longer-term Bristol proposals from the West Town Lane junction towards Bristol city centre that were in the 2023 consultation.

Following feedback from 5,000 residents in 2023 onwards, the revised proposals include:

- 40 new and upgraded pedestrian crossings – with safety set to be improved around local schools such as Holymead Infant and Primary, Wicklea Academy, Broomhill Junior, and St Annes Infant schools

- Extending the popular Bristol and Bath Railway Path by half a mile into the centre of Bath and improving the entrance near the Bird in Hand pub in Saltford

- Upgrades for almost 150 bus stops – 50% more than previously proposed – including raised kerbs for level access, more bus shelters, and new real-time information displays

- New segregated, two-way cycle lanes near and to St Brendan’s College and Oasis Academy Brislington

- Improved pedestrian and walking connections around Bath Spa University

- New bus lanes – including an almost continuous section between West Town Lane and Emery Road, without losing road space for cars

Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, said: “Everyone who calls the West home knows that traffic is often a problem along the A4, particularly at rush hour.

“These revised proposals are a result of listening to local people, including in Keynsham and Saltford earlier this year, and should help cut congestion and pollution.

“I’ve said before and will say again that we need more carrots, and less sticks, so that people have more reliable, sustainable options for how to get around our region. School Streets are something I backed as a councillor and I continue to support school safety efforts as Mayor.

“While local council leaders and I think that these proposals are much stronger than previous plans, thanks to the input of residents, nothing is set in stone.

“We want people to have their say to help further develop these ideas, so that this investment can really make a difference that our communities can see and feel in and between Bath and Bristol.”

Councillor Sarah Warren, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Sustainable Bath & North East Somerset: "We welcome this fresh consultation and the improvements made to the A4 Bath to Bristol proposals following feedback from our communities.

“These updated plans reflect a more balanced and thoughtful approach to sustainable transport, with better walking, wheeling and cycling connections, safer routes for school children and significant upgrades to bus infrastructure.

“The proposed extension to the Bristol and Bath Railway Path into the heart of Bath and improving pedestrian access around Bath Spa University are important steps in making active travel a more attractive and accessible choice for residents.

“We’re pleased to see that concerns raised locally - such as around road closures and congestion - have been listened to and addressed.

“I encourage everyone in Bath and North East Somerset to take part in this consultation. Your feedback is vital in shaping a transport network that works for all, reduces congestion and supports healthier, more connected communities."

Councillor Tony Dyer, Leader of Bristol City Council, said: “Better transport links between Bristol and Bath is an important step on the way to boosting economic growth, social connectivity, and quality of life across the region.

“These proposals aim to make bus services like the X39 quicker and more reliable, while creating safer, more accessible and pleasant routes for walking, wheeling and cycling.

“I encourage everyone who lives, works or travels along the A4 to take part in the consultation and share their views.

“Your feedback will help shape a transport network that works better for all of us – reducing congestion, improving air quality, and supporting more sustainable ways to travel.”

The six-week consultation will include five in-person events for residents to ask questions and discuss the updated plans. They will be held on the following days:

- October 24, 2pm – 8pm at Keynsham Library, BS31 1FS

- November 4, 2pm – 8pm at Hungerford Community Centre, BS4 5EX

- November 7, 2:30pm – 8:30pm at St Mary’s Church, Saltford, BS31 3EL

- November 12, 2pm – 8pm at The Street Locksbrook Campus, Bath Spa University, BA1 3EL

- November 13, 2pm – 8pm at St Christopher’s Church, Brislington, BS4 3HN