Protecting the River Avon, making walking wheeling and cycling better and school’s out for summer As we head into the summer holidays and many families prepare for a well-earned break, I wanted to reflect on some positive developments across Bath and North East Somerset and look ahead to an exciting few weeks. Whatever our political views, moments of change in national leadership are significant. It was welcome yesterday to see Andy Burnham joining the West of England Mayor Helen Godwin, on his first visit, since becoming Prime Minister, at the First Bus depot in Bath to announce the £2 fare cap. I look forward to seeing how government works with councils like ours to tackle the challenges facing communities and to create opportunities for residents. Closer to home, I was proud to see the council unanimously support the River Avon Charter at last week's Full Council meeting. The charter recognises the importance of our river and the need to protect and restore it for future generations. The River Avon is at the heart of our communities, our landscape and our local wildlife, and this commitment reflects our determination to be a strong voice for cleaner, healthier waterways. We're also continuing to invest in making it easier for people to get around by foot, wheelchair, mobility scooter and bike. Work is progressing on three important schemes that will help create a more connected city. Improvements are coming to Bear Flat, where new crossings and wider pavements will make journeys safer and more accessible. Along the Kennet & Avon Canal route near Sydney Gardens, new links and crossings will improve connections between Bathwick and the city centre. And plans for the Weston to City Centre route, including Royal Victoria Park, will create safer walking, wheeling and cycling options for residents and visitors alike. Together, these projects will help people choose healthier, greener ways to travel while improving access across Bath. Work to make it safer and better for children and families to walk between three schools in Midsomer Norton is also about to get under way. Construction on the Clapton Road and Redfield Road improvement scheme will start next week. Once completed, pupils and parents will benefit from a safer walking and wheeling route between Longvernal Primary School, St John’s Church of England Primary School and Somervale School. Finally, with schools breaking up for the summer, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy everything our area has to offer. One of the highlights is the return of the Roman Baths Summer Lates, where visitors can experience the historic site in the magical atmosphere of a summer evening. Alongside the Summer Lates programme, there are activities, events and opportunities for families to make the most of the holidays and discover our remarkable heritage right on their doorstep. Please remember to make use of your residents’ Discovery Card. Have a great weekend Councillor Sarah Warren,
Deputy Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council | 
