Date published: 2026-06-30 | Category: Focusing on prevention, Giving people a bigger say, Leisure, Tourism and Heritage, public safety, Roads, travel and transport
Bath & North East Somerset Council is running three separate but linked consultations to understand how activities happening in one place at the same time, including trading events and street performance, could best work together for everyone.
The consultations run from today (June 30) until September 4 and cover proposals for:
- A new overarching Street Strategy setting out a clear and co-ordinated approach to ensure public spaces are safe and accessible
- A new amenities on the highway policy covering freestanding items such as tables, chairs and A-boards
- A revised street performance guide for the whole of B&NES, replacing the council’s existing rules for busking and street performance in Bath
These proposals form the first phase of the Street Strategy which sets overall principles for well-managed streets. People responding to the consultation can feedback on which activities work well, how they could be designed to safely co-exist in one place and what behaviour is expected from performers.
A future phase of consultation will explore the best way to manage street trading, markets, filming and events.
The strategy cannot address items on the street that are constrained by legal or planning requirements, such as fixed road signs or trees, or whether street performance should take place generally.
Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Communications and Community, said: “Businesses and buskers bring vibrancy to streets across B&NES, creating an enjoyable atmosphere and boosting local trade. The aim of our Street Strategy is to ensure streets and public spaces remain lively while being accessible and inclusive for everyone. It supports our Cultural Development Plan which emphasises the role culture has in bringing communities together.
“The Street Strategy would introduce consistency to what happens in public spaces and address equality issues, such as obstructive items on pavements. These three consultations are a meaningful opportunity for people most affected by street activity to shape how the policies are developed – particularly people with access needs, small businesses and performers. However, the consultation is open to everyone and we look forward to hearing your feedback.”
Anyone who has questions about the consultation can email Street_Strategy@bathnes.gov.uk
ENDS