Pedestrianisation works to start on Cotham Hill in June

Published On: June 5th, 2023

Construction work is set to take place during the summer and autumn months in and around Cotham Hill, forming part of a larger scheme aimed at sustainably improving the area for pedestrians, businesses and cyclists.

In 2021, a trial pedestrianisation project closed off stretches of Cotham Hill between Whiteladies Gate and Hampton Lane, as well as from Hampton Park to Abbotsford Road. This initiative proved successful, granting residents greater freedom to travel on foot or by bike while providing local hospitality venues with extra space for outdoor trading.

The forthcoming construction work will build upon these achievements, paving the way for quality-of-life improvements that benefit everyone in the community.

The permanent changes will:

make it easier and safer to walk and cycle in the area and encourage active travel
manage traffic flow and reduce pollution in the area
support local businesses who will benefit from space for outdoor trading

Businesses have been asked to remove any structures from Cotham Hill while the works take place. However, for the most part, tables and chairs can continue to be used and the council is waiving pavement licences fees over the construction period.

The programme of work includes:

improving the pedestrian crossings
improving the pavements, including widening and dropping kerbs
some resurfacing within the pedestrianised areas
changes to junctions
new one-ways
new loading and disabled parking bays
new cycle stands, benches and bins
new planters and trees

The £645,000 scheme is being funded by Active Travel England and via the West of England Combined Authority through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement set aside for Liveable Neighbourhood projects in Bristol.

Construction work is due to start in June 2023 and be completed by the end of the year.