The Bath River Line project aims to create a 10km linear park following the River Avon through the heart of Bath. The project has three phases and phase one will cover the stretch from Newbridge to Bath Quays.
Project aims
The Bath River Line has the following objectives:
- Enhance and expand the active travel network in Bath by creating a level, accessible route from Newbridge to Batheaston
- Improve biodiversity and climate change resilience by creating and enhancing natural habitats
- Provide a safe, social and inclusive space for residents and visitors
Phase One: Construction 2025
Phase One of the Bath River Line is funded from grants and developers' contributions and includes new seating, improved access to the river path and ecological planting along the river path between Windsor Bridge and Green Park. New wayfinding signage is also being developed and will be installed later in 2025.
Construction for these improvements will take place from 16 April 2025. Sections of the towpath will be temporarily closed during construction when work is taking place in that area. Each closure will last up to two weeks. Work will take place from April to August.
A map and sketches of improvements on the Bath River Line. Click to enlarge the image.
Artists impressions of proposed changes along the towpath in Bath as part of the Bath River Line project, showing people and wildlife by the river. Pollinator planting along the existing wall of Norfolk buildings. Seating nooks and planting on the towpath between Midland Bridge and the steps to Sainsbury’s supermarket. Planting, a handrail and tactile paving to improve the steps by Midland Bridge. Wider entrance to Green Park with new bin, bollards and cycle storage, level access and resurfaced path. A new seated area and cleared vegetation in Green Park providing a view of the river.
Please follow the diversion signs when the 'Footpath Closed' signs are in place.
Check the temporary signs along to river path, and our social media channels (Instagram: @GreenBathNES and @BathNESCouncil, X: @WaterSpaceBath) for details on what’s coming and when.
The map below shows the Bath River Line and where improvements are being made:
Please email riveravon@bathnes.gov.uk if you have any feedback, queries or concerns during the construction phase. Out of hours emergencies can be reported via the Council Connect service on 01225 477477.
Monthly Walks
The Bath River Line team are running monthly walks, join one to learn more about the river’s ecology and history.
Details can be found on social media: Instagram @GreenBathNES and @BathNESCouncil, X: @WaterSpaceBath) or Eventbrite: WaterSpace Connected
Further information
The concept of a new 10km riverside path and improvements to the public realm for Bath first emerged from our WaterSpace Study.
Plans for the Bath River Line were developed following extensive community engagement and consultation in 2021.You can view the consultation report here.
The Bath River Line is an urban green and blue infrastructure project grant funded by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA), developed in partnership with the Canal & River Trust, the Environment Agency, Wessex Water, National Trust and Bath Spa University.
Volunteer with us
If you're interested in becoming a Bath River Line volunteer, we’d love to hear from you! Get in touch by emailing riveravon@bathnes.gov.uk.