Bath Park and Ride plans likely to be dropped

Bath & NE Somerset Council has announced a major u-turn on its transport policy, abandoning its controversial plans for Bathampton Meadows

Senior councillors will meet next Wednesday, 19 July, to discuss whether to drop the plans for a park and ride on two greenbelt sites to the east of Bath.

It follows massive opposition from residents who have put on numerous protests against the move.

Hundreds of people have demonstrated against plans to build a park and ride on Bathampton Meadows. Credit: ITV West Country

So why the change of heart?

  • The turnaround has apparently been made on safety grounds. It is all about safe distances from junctions which neither option meets, due to their proximity to the A46/A4 junction.

  • The council has also failed to reach agreement with the landowner's agent to buy the land for the Site B option

One of many protests against plans for a Park and Ride on Bathampton Meadows. Credit: ITV West Country

What is the next step?

The council leader, Cllr Tim Warren, says that it is no secret that the eastern Park and Ride idea has been challenging, with strong views on both sides. He now recommends pursuing the council's other traffic and transport measures.

Campaigners celebrating the council's change of heart at Bathampton Meadows today. Credit: ITV West Country

And what do the protesters think?

Residents who opposed the building of a Park and Ride on Bathampton Meadows were, understandably, happy at today's news.