B&NES Green Group expresses disappointment in the recent Labour-led call-in regarding the Southlands Liveable Neighbourhood (LN) Scheme. The call-in, aimed at challenging the decision to make the experimental traffic regulation permanent, undermines critical efforts to address the climate emergency and promote sustainability in the region.
The Southlands LN Scheme is aligned with the core policies of B&NES, emphasising the urgent need to combat the climate and ecological emergencies while engaging residents in decision-making processes. Despite initial opposition highlighted in consultation results, subsequent data reveals significant support for the trial scheme, with 39% of respondents backing it and 41% of respondents saying they live in Southlands, acknowledging its positive impact on themselves and their area.
Criticism surrounding increased journey times by car overlooks the broader objective of reducing private car usage by 24% by 2030, in line with the council’s sustainability goals. Investment in measures to enable walking, wheeling, and cycling is essential to encourage sustainable modes of transportation. It is crucial to recognise that consultations such as the one on the Southlands LN are not referendums but tools for gathering feedback to inform decision-making. The focus should remain on addressing public health concerns, including childhood obesity, and creating safer streets through initiatives like Vision Zero.
The Green Group has long advocated for a circulation plan to address wider transport issues comprehensively. In fact, Green group leader, Councillor Joanna Wright, has flagged this issue continuously to the Council, writing in a statement to B&NES Cabinet back in January 2022: “This local Council […] has failed to put in place a broader circulation plan.”
The failure to implement such a plan by the current administration hampers progress toward sustainable mobility solutions. The absence of a holistic approach risks exacerbating traffic problems and inhibiting the transition to greener modes of transportation.
Green Councillor Sam Ross’ inquiry to Cabinet in September 2023 about the circulation plan for Bath underscores the persistent need for strategic planning to enhance traffic flow and prioritise sustainable transport options. The absence of a comprehensive strategy undermines the effectiveness of individual interventions like the Southlands LN Scheme.
Considering the ongoing climate crisis and the imperative to reduce air pollution, it is essential to prioritise evidence-based interventions aimed at promoting active travel and enhancing public health and wellbeing. The Green Group urges all parties to refocus efforts on collaborative solutions that prioritise the long-term sustainability and resilience of Bath and North East Somerset.
Green Councillor, Saskia Heijltjes, adds:
“When I asked for an update on the circulation plan at the Climate Emergency and Sustainability Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel in January 2024, I was told the work on the circulation plan had just been started.
“That is simply not good enough. I believe the circulation plan should have been finalised much sooner, and certainly before putting in place multiple Liveable Neighbourhoods across Bath.”
In response to Councillor Heijltjes’ request for an update on the circulation plan, Cabinet Member Councillor Rigby said: “Everyone would prefer to do it the right, other way around… We are really clear that overall, we need a circulation plan.”