Local MP Wera Hobhouse organised a conference recently (Sat 9th June) to hear from a variety of speakers on the issues surrounding traffic congestion and pollution in Bath. BPT’s CEO Caroline Kay gave a presentation to the audience, outlining some quick fixes as well as more long term measures for the Council to implement.  Two of the quick fixes were to increase the hours and ease/cost of use of the 3 Park & Ride sites, and to invest in cycling infrastructure, whilst long term measures included the establishment of the A350 as the north-south trunk route to ease pressure off the A36 and London Road.

We also heard from Rosie Rogers of Greenpeace and Dr Ian Wilkins from Bath University, who gave a very interesting talk on behavioural change and why we are so reliant on the motor car. Other speakers included Adam Reynolds on the wide range of options that could be implemented based on the examples of other European cities, and Dave Andrews on his Bath trams proposal.  Residents and business groups were also represented.

What was clear is that all stakeholders are urging the Council to act now, act quickly, and to be bold and brave in their proposed solutions, ensuring all parts of the Council are working towards the same aim, to reduce air pollution levels and ease road congestion