Purpose

To seek Cabinet approval to formally adopt the updated Movement Strategy for Bath, which provides a long-term strategic framework for how people and goods will move around the city over the next decade. The Strategy sets out a clear vision and guiding principles to improve travel choices, reduce private car dependency, support accessibility for all, enhance the quality of streets and public spaces, and contribute to the Council’s climate and net zero objectives. Once adopted, the Movement Strategy will be used to inform transport investment, scheme development, and wider policy and development decisions affecting Bath.

Decision

To adopt the Movement Strategy for Bath (Attachment 2 to the report), incorporating the supporting Engagement Report and Recommendations Report (Attachments 7 and 8 to the report respectively).

Reasons for the decision

The Council undertook a six-week public consultation (14 October 2025 – 28 November 2025) on the Movement Strategy for Bath, seeking feedback on key proposals to reduce congestion, improve travel choices, and create better public spaces. With over 840 responses during the public engagement, 63% of respondents supportive and only 18% opposed.

The majority of respondents were residents (72%), with others including workers, visitors, and students. Most people became aware of the consultation through social media (27%), leaflets (22%), or word of mouth (20%).

The Movement Strategy Engagement Report was published on 27 March 2026. A Recommendations Report has since been developed to set out the Council’s response to the consultation feedback and how the final strategy will be updated accordingly. The updated Movement Strategy for Bath has been revised to reflect these changes.

The Engagement Report and Recommendations Report alongside the Movement Strategy for Bath (attached to the report) support the Strategy by setting out the consultation findings and recommended responses, demonstrating the Council’s commitment to incorporating public feedback into decision-making.

Overall, the consultation demonstrates a clear strategic need for the Movement Strategy and provides a strong evidence base for progressing its objectives. It underlines the importance of listening to residents and ensuring that their feedback is appropriately reflected in the Council’s approach. By incorporating these views, the Council can deliver a robust and responsive strategy that enhances travel choices, reduces reliance on private vehicles, and supports the Council’s commitment to tackling the climate emergency and achieving its Net Zero ambitions.

Alternative options considered

An alternative to delivering the Movement Strategy would be to take no action. However, this option was rejected as Bath and North East Somerset Council declared a climate emergency in 2019. Without a plan in place, future growth would likely lead to increased congestion and rising transport emissions, undermining the Council’s environmental commitments.

The Movement Strategy analysis confirmed that with no action taken, there will be a 7% increase in total car journeys over a 10-year period, resulting in additional transport related emissions.

The Movement Strategy represents the next critical step in achieving the carbon reduction targets set out in the Journey to Net Zero. It provides a proactive and coordinated approach to managing transport demand, reducing emissions, and supporting sustainable development within Bath.