Use this page to find out about the proposed improvements to the walking, wheeling and cycling links between Midsomer Norton and Westfield.
Project and strategy context
The Midsomer Norton and Westfield Walking, Wheeling and Cycling Links (WWCL) scheme aims to improve travel choices by providing safer and more connected active travel routes, reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality.
It is one of several CRSTS (City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements) projects being developed in the region.
Public consultation took place in 2023, alongside the Somer Valley Links scheme, and feedback has aided the project’s next phase: the development of a Full Business Case. The schemes were identified in WECA's Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan.
We aim to provide more travel choices for everyone. As part of our Corporate Strategy, we want to make walking, wheeling, and cycling safer, more convenient and accessible, while helping to reduce congestion and improve air quality.
What we're proposing to do
The project consists of two main elements:
- Silver Street to Fosseway walking and wheeling improvements via Charlton Road
- Midsomer Norton to Westfield cycling and wheeling route via Pit Road and Nightingale Way
The project will include the following features:
- Footway (pavement) widening
- Narrowing junctions and continuous footways at side roads to assist people walking and wheeling
- Widening off-road footpaths to enable cycling
- New lighting
Key project aims
- Providing safe, accessible and enjoyable walking, wheeling and cycling routes
- Adding walking infrastructure to enable active travel
- Increasing safety for those choosing sustainable methods of transport
- Reducing vehicle speeds in residential areas
Why walking and cycling are important
We need to make walking, wheeling and cycling the natural choice for a lot more of our journeys. Currently, over a third of car trips across Bath and North East Somerset are less than 5km.
The importance of walking, wheeling, and cycling, or ‘active travel’ as an affordable and accessible mode of transport has become increasingly apparent over recent years.
The benefits of active travel are extensive - from improving air quality to ensuring healthier places and people. By enabling more travel options, we can optimise road space for all.
Active Travel Masterplan
The routes are part of our emerging Active Travel Masterplan, a comprehensive plan that sets out the existing and future network of active travel infrastructure. Consultation took place during summer 2024 and aims to enable walking, cycling, and other forms of active travel, ensuring safer, healthier, and more accessible transportation options for everyone. It will support all types of journeys, including commuting, education, leisure, and tourism.
We are currently considering your feedback and plan to publish a project update in early 2025. View the Masterplan consultation page to find out more.
Project timeline
| Date | Stage |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Public consultation (as part of Somer Valley Links) |
| 2024 | Development of Full Business Case |
| Nov 2024 to April 2025 | Preliminary design phase |
| Feb/Mar 2025 | Further engagement (alongside Somer Valley Links) |
| Autumn/Winter 2025 | Submission of Full Business Case to WECA |
| Spring 2026 | Construction start |
