New through-traffic restrictions in Gay Street were installed under an experimental traffic regulation order (ETRO) for a minimum of six months on 4 November 2024. These restrictions remain in place until a decision is reached on the outcome of the trial later in 2025.
This trial is one of three linked restrictions in the Lower Lansdown ETRO trial, which is part our Liveable Neighbourhood programme. Its aim is to prevent motorists from using residential streets in the area as a short cut to and from the A46/M4.
During the trial, we monitored its impacts on traffic and air quality and sought residents’ views in a six-month public consultation from November 2024 to 30 April 2025. The consultation is now closed.
We intend to publish reports on the outcomes of the consultation later in 2025. Along with a consideration of council policy, these will inform a decision by the Cabinet Member for Highways on whether to remove the trials or make them permanent under a formal Traffic Regulation Order. Until this decision is made, the trial will remain in place.
Please return to the trial’s home page to keep up to date on the outcome of all three linked trials.
Overview of the Gay Street trial
Under the trial, northbound motorists can no longer enter Gay Street at its junction with George Street. Two-way traffic is still permitted on Gay Street, but with entry via The Circus only.
Motorists can leave Gay Street via The Circus or by turning left into George Street, but they are not permitted to travel south towards Queen Square. These new restrictions do not apply to cyclists.
You can view more details using the map and annotations below.
Trial details
The following annotations correspond to the numbered map above:
- We installed a south-facing 'no entry except cycles' sign at the junction of Gay Street with George Street to prevent northbound motorists from entering Gay Street
- We installed a north-facing ‘no right turn except cycles’ sign on Gay Street at the junction with George Street to prevent southbound vehicles from travelling straight ahead to Queen Square.
- We removed one parking space, south of the disabled bay on Gay Street, to provide access for larger vehicles and space to turn.
- A temporary island build-out narrows the junction at the foot of Gay Street, creating a short stretch of cycle lane and an informal crossing point (with dropped kerbs and tactile paving).
- Gay Street remains two-way with access to all homes and businesses from The Circus. Alternatively, motorists can exit the area by turning left into George Street.
- The existing ‘no right turn’ sign on George Street warns westbound motorists that it is not possible to turn right into Gay Street.
Find out more
For more detail on the trials, you can:
- Read an overview of the Lower Lansdown ETRO
- Read more about the linked Winifred's Lane trial
- Read more about the linked Catharine Place trial
You can contact us and talk to an advisor or request this information in an alternative format by emailing us at LNs@bathnes.gov.uk, or calling 01225 394025 and requesting a call back from a team member.