A message from Cllr Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset CouncilI want to thank everyone who has already taken part in our Local Plan Options Consultation, it has been great to see so many people talking to with us about the options which are the first step in helping shape the future of our area. With the government’s housing target for Bath and North East Somerset set at 27,000 new homes over 18 years, we face both a significant challenge and a once-in-a-generation chance to deliver sustainable, well-planned development that meets local needs. We’re committed to ensuring that growth comes with the right infrastructure, services and employment opportunities, and that it protects what makes our district special. We’ve been holding plenty of pop-up events, briefings, and outreach sessions across the area to hear from as many different voices as possible. If you haven’t yet shared your views, please do so by November 14 at bathnesplaces.co.uk/localplan. Alongside this, I’m pleased to share progress on our plans for School Streets - a key part of our commitment to safer, healthier journeys for children. Following requests from local schools, we’re proposing new School Streets at Widcombe Infant and Junior School, St Philip’s Church of England Primary School, St Stephen’s Primary Church School, and Newbridge Primary School. These schemes would temporarily restrict motor traffic outside school gates during drop-off and pick-up times, creating calmer, safer environments and encouraging walking and cycling. If approved, we aim to launch these initiatives in spring 2026, working closely with school communities and residents to finalise the details. Yesterday I took the opportunity to meet the police and fire service (pictured) in a walk around Widcombe ward. We work closely with our colleagues in the emergency services and it was good to discuss local issues with them. I am really proud to see a new service we have launched to make it easier for deaf residents to access support. The British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service allows users to contact Council Connect for everyday enquiries such as waste collection, road issues, and library services without needing a family member or friend to interpret. It’s a key step in our commitment to making council services inclusive and accessible to all. Have a great weekend. | 
