News / Transport
£450k upgrade set for popular cycle path
More than £450,000 is going to be spent on a section of the Bristol & Bath Railway Path in a bid to improve safety and accessibility.
Funding from West of England Mayoral Combined Authority will be used to upgrade the South Gloucestershire section of the path between Staple Hill tunnel and Bitton Station.
As part of the works, CCTV cameras will be installed between the tunnel and the old Mangotsfield Station in an effort to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.
A new lighting scheme is being planned for the section between Siston Hill roundabout and Warmley Waiting Room, said to be designed to improve visibility while taking nearby wildlife into account.
Nine “pinch points”, narrow sections of the popular commuter route that can be difficult for Disabled users, families and cyclists to navigate, will also be upgraded.
The proposals follow a public consultation carried out by South Gloucestershire Council at the end of 2025.
A map shows where CCTV cameras will be installed along the cycle path – image: South Gloucestershire Council
Figures show there were nine reports of anti-social and suspicious behaviour on the South Gloucestershire section of the path in 2025 including incidents involving drug use, theft and youths riding at speed on an e-bike.
West of England mayor Helen Godwin said she was “delighted” to have secured the investment.
“The route is incredibly popular, and this initial investment will allow us to make the path safer and more accessible, particularly by addressing long‑standing pinch points and installing new CCTV cameras to help deter crime and anti‑social behaviour,” she said.
“These upgrades will give people greater confidence to walk, wheel and cycle, and will help ensure the path continues to serve our growing communities for many years to come.”
An average of roughly 1,100 cyclists and pedestrians use the section between the Staple Hill tunnel and Bitton Station each day – photo: Betty Woolerton
Louisa Dale, director at Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, said: “Our organisation pioneered the very first miles of the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, so we’re thrilled to see further investment here.
“By making these improvements, the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority is tackling the barriers that stop people from walking, wheeling and cycling.
“These works will make it easier for people who live in deprived areas, those with disabilities, young and older people and women to get involved, putting this people powered highway on track for a great future.”
Main photo: Betty Woolerton
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