Use this page to find out more about and respond to our Amenities on the Highway Policy consultation
Since the Covid-19 lockdowns that took place from 2020, communities and businesses, especially in the hospitality sector, have increasingly used outdoor public space.
They have created outdoor environments where people can eat, drink and enjoy the atmosphere of the city. They also use freestanding items, such as advertising A‑boards, planters and display stands on pavements and roads (spaces which we term 'the highway' in this policy).
When well managed, this has helped create more vibrant streets and supported local business and economic recovery. However, it also places pressure on limited public space.
As the use of public space grows, it's important to balance business activity with accessibility and safety. Footways must continue to be safe, accessible and inclusive for everyone. Highways (meaning roads or streets, as well as footpaths, verges and public spaces) exist primarily for safe public movement, so this must remain the priority.
What we're consulting on
We are introducing a policy to manage freestanding items on the highway. It will support vibrant, active streets while protecting safe and inclusive access for all.
It forms part of the wider Street Strategy, which brings together how different street activities are managed in a coordinated, fair and accessible way.
We are consulting on the proposed Amenities on the Highway Policy, which sets out how we will manage freestanding items placed on the public highway, such as A‑boards and planters, linked to nearby premises.
The policy sets out:
- the types of items covered
- the principles that will guide decision-making
- how we'll prioritise accessibility, equality and safety
- how we'll manage limited public space fairly and consistently
We want to know whether our proposed approach is clear, fair and workable. We will take into account the need to reduce barriers and avoid disadvantage, particularly for people with disabilities and access needs.
Some aspects of highway management are set by law and cannot change. This consultation focuses on areas where we have discretion, including how we apply the policy in practice.
Who we’re consulting
We would like to hear from:
- residents
- local businesses and business employees
- pedestrians and shoppers
- people with access needs
- focus groups and representatives for people with access needs
- community groups and residents’ associations
- parish and town councils
- visitors to the area
- event organisers
- older people
- parents and carers
- emergency services
- Council services: Highways, Waste, Cleansing, Regeneration, Capital Projects
Have your say
To share your views on the proposed Amenities on the Highway policy, please complete the online consultation form.
We are particularly keen to hear from people who experience barriers when moving around streets and public spaces, especially where freestanding items affect access.
Please read the Amenities on the Highway Policy document before responding.
This consultation is open until 4pm on Friday 4 September 2026.
We're also running two connected consultations:
If you need a different format
If you need support completing the form online or require another format, please call us on 01225 39 40 41 or email street_strategy@bathnes.gov.uk
Alternatively, you can visit us for in-person support at any of our B&NES-run libraries or information centres.
What happens next
We will review and consider all responses as part of our decision‑making process before finalising the policy. Accessibility and equality will continue to shape how we apply, monitor and review the policy once it is in place.