Rapid bus route plan now unlikely

Thousands of path users have opposed the scheme: picture by Donald Sydney

Plans to build a high speed bus route along part of the Bristol to Bath cycle path look likely be scrapped.

Councillor Mark Bradshaw for Bristol City Council said the path was too small to accommodate a bus rapid transit (BRT) route.

Mr Bradshaw changed his views after a visit to Cambridge where a similar system is being installed.

The decision will please the cycling charity Sustrans and 10,000 people who signed a petition against the scheme.

Mr Bradshaw said adopting the scheme "would require such a significant change in the character and amenity of the cycle path that it would not be acceptable".

The City Council is also committed to avoiding anything "that would undermine walking and cycling in the city".