World-leading green Bath and inclusive sanctuary culture celebrated Today is Clean Air Day – a chance to reflect on an issue that affects every one of us, but particularly those most vulnerable in our community, including children, older people, and those with existing health conditions. Air pollution isn’t always visible, but its impact on health is real, and that’s why improving air quality remains a priority for us. Across Bath and North East Somerset we have seen improvements in air quality thanks to things like the Clean Air Zone, investing in safer walking, wheeling and cycling routes and investing in our own electric vehicles. We have set our ambitions in a new Clean Air Strategy, which outlines the actions we want to take over the coming years, including setting ambitious local targets to drive further improvements and we are keen to hear your views. The consultation on our strategy runs until 23 June. You can find out more and have your say by visiting Clean Air Strategy consultation. This week is also Shared Lives Week which is a chance to celebrate this remarkable scheme and the people who make it possible. Shared Lives carers open their homes and their lives to support adults who need a bit of extra help to live independently and feel part of their community. If you’ve ever thought about becoming a carer, or simply want to understand more, I’d encourage you to find out how you could get involved. I’m also incredibly proud that The Roman Baths has become the first cultural institution in the city to be awarded Museum of Sanctuary status, recognising its work in welcoming and supporting refugees and people seeking asylum. The honour reflects our commitment to being welcoming and inclusive. Earlier this year Bath was named the world’s best city for green space and nature in the 2026 Time Out Best Cities with Intrepid Travel ranking – the result of a survey of more than 24,000 city-dwellers across 150 cities globally – Bath scored 94% approval rating. Events like the Forest of Imagination, which ends this weekend, and the Festival of Nature remind us of the importance of our green spaces and the role they play in supporting our wellbeing and tackling the climate emergency. Have a good weekend. A message from Councillor Sarah Warren,
Deputy Leader, Bath & North East Somerset Council | 
