Traffic and pollution

Congestion and air pollution from traffic are top concerns for Bath residents.

Nitrogen dioxide levels along most of the main road network are 50% above the Government limit of 40 micrograms/cubic metre, at which pollution is considered to be a potential health risk. Diesel particulates are also a problem, being linked to both lung and heart disease.

The Council projects that the number of cars travelling through central Bath at rush hour is set to increase by 14% by 2018, and that delays will increase dramatically if nothing is done to tackle congestion.

These traffic levels have a major impact on the overall appearance and amenity of the city. Queen Square is little more than a roundabout on the A4, while the Circus is a busy rat-run with up to 500 vehicle movements per hour. Except in a tiny central area, vehicles have priority over pedestrians and there is little provision for cyclists. Pollution and vibration from vehicles is taking its toll on the fabric of historic buildings.

What would be an unsatisfactory situation in any city is an absurdity in a World Heritage City which depends heavily on tourism. Other towns and cities, such as Baden-Baden (bottom) with which Bath is often compared, manage traffic much better, and create a more civilised urban environment.

FoBRA therefore believes that it is time for traffic in Bath to be restricted. The Council has made a start with the Bath Transport Package, which will provide improved public transport and increased Park & Ride capacity. The Federation supports this, but believes that B&NES needs to complement this with a comprehensive plan to deal with traffic in the city, eg by:

• managing and restricting traffic, especially through traffic. Congestion charging should be considered as an element of this plan. Facilities for pedestrians and cyclists should be improved.

• reducing the number of Heavy Goods Vehicles travelling through Bath. Existing HGV limits should be enforced.

• Improving public transport and encouraging its use. BANES should provide better school bus services.

• setting out its policy for parking in Bath and its relationship to traffic management.