Use this page to find out about the proposed improvements to the walking, wheeling and cycling route between North Road and Ralph Allen School in Bath.
What we're proposing to do
The Ralph Allen Link creates a new public right of way for wheeling and cycling across Free Fields and Fairy Wood, linking residential areas with schools. The scheme will also connect to the eastern section of Scholars’ Way, towards the University of Bath.
The route will enable those walking, wheeling and cycling to avoid North Road and Claverton Down Road, creating a more enjoyable, safer and accessible environment.
Improvements will include the following:
- a new, hard-surfaced path through Free Fields, along the route of the existing footpath
- the replacement of existing steps with a ramp, for improved accessibility
- a new, hard-surfaced route (along the second section, through Fairy Wood) next to the existing path, to the north of the Bath Clinic
View the route on a map
Key project aims
- Greater connectivity between proposed active travel schemes in the south of Bath
- Providing safe, accessible and enjoyable walking, wheeling and cycling routes
- Adding infrastructure to enable active travel for children
- Increasing the safety for those choosing sustainable methods of transport
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.