Planning permission has been granted for two new pedestrian and cycling bridges that will form part of the Two Tunnels route, linking Midford with Bath.
The bridges will cross Millmead Road and Monksdale Rd making the route safer for pedestrians and cyclists who will no longer have to cross these roads, and also making the route more accessible, as the severe elevation changes at these junctions can be difficult to navigate for the less mobile, including wheelchair users.
The Two Tunnels route is part of charity Sustrans’ Connect2 project, which is developing new everyday walking and cycling links in communities across the UK. The national project was awarded £50million by the Big Lottery Fund in 2007, following a public vote. Other funding for the Bath project is coming from Bath & North East Somerset Council and local fundraising.
Sustrans’ Senior Engineer for the Two Tunnels route, Patrick Tully, said, “It is great news planning permission has been granted for these bridges, which will open up the route to even more people by providing a level path across the south of the city, as well as providing safe crossings of Millmead and Monksdale Roads.
“We will be continuing the ecological work undertaken in preparation for the project in ensuring there is no disturbance to local wildlife when works commence.”
Site clearance work will be started within the next month. Some trees will be removed during the site clearance work, but Sustrans is committed to re-planting at least the same number of trees to replace those lost. The bridges are due to be installed by the end of 2011.
The Sustrans website - www.sustrans.org.uk - has a free online map service to discover how to get around everyday on foot or by bike. Search for local or national routes, plot journeys, or find what the local area has to offer from schools, supermarkets and local landmarks to car clubs, bus stops and bike shops.
