Our heartfelt condolences go to Charley’s family
Ijoin communities across our area in offering my heartfelt condolences following the death on July 31 of 16-year-old Charley Bates (inset) from Radstock.
Charley’s death has shocked our community. I am sure I speak for all of us when I say I cannot imagine the pain Charley’s family must be going through. His is a tragic loss of a young life.
The police, Youth Connect South West and Bath & North East Somerset Council have worked closely together to provide support.
Youth Connect South West set up a drop-in for any young person affected by Charley’s death and also organised an event to support parents, carers and the community. My thanks go to those who have provided help and support to the family and to the local community at this very difficult time.
If you have any information, please call 101 and give the reference 5222182800. Regular readers of this column will know that transport is a key priority for me, so I want to give an update on some key projects.
As part of our city centre security scheme we’ll be closing Cheap Street temporarily to vehicles later in the summer. During this time, Blue Badge holders will still be able to access and park in Cheap Street, Westgate Street and Upper Borough Walls but will need to enter via Westgate Buildings and exit via Upper Borough Walls.
When the works start the diversions will be clearly signposted, and marshals will be available to do their usual security checks and help people at Westgate Buildings.
Pedestrian access will be maintained for people who are walking or wheeling. The construction works will not prevent traders, or their customers, from accessing their premises.
Making changes in Bath city centre is challenging due to the unique nature of the city. Cleveland Bridge is almost 200 years old and is Grade II* listed.
As the bridge renovation progressed, we found severe corrosion.
As recommended in an independent engineering report, we are looking to reopen the bridge to two-way traffic by late September/early October, subject to a monitoring system being installed.
Safety is our top priority.
As we know, many of the streets in our city were simply not built for modern traffic.
Our community-led Liveable Neighbourhoods Programme aims to create healthier, safer spaces for everyone to share.
Until August 30 we are asking for views on proposals for through-traffic restrictions in four pilot areas – Southlands, Weston; Church Street, Widcombe; Tennyson Road and Cork Street; and Queen Charlton Lane (Whitchurch Village).
These have been chosen due to the high levels of support already expressed by some residents for these proposals, and to quickly improve the safety and quality of life for residents living in or around these streets.
Vehicle access would be maintained for residents and visitors, plus the emergency and other services.
A total of 15 Liveable
Neighbourhoods are currently being shaped by local communities’ views.
A Liveable Neighbourhood could see wider pavements, new cycle lanes, additional crossings and outdoor seating.
Through-traffic restrictions are only proposed where there is a compelling reason to introduce them or where there is significant support from communities.
Finally, earlier this month many of us were gripped by the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. More than 30 athletes, who train, study or have studied at the University of Bath, competed and finished the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games with a fantastic 33 medals between them, seven gold, 17 silver and nine bronze.
I’d like to congratulate all those involved: the athletes, their coaches and everyone at the University of Bath who has contributed to their success.