A key cycle route linking communities across the Somerset Levels could be enhanced and extended as part of a new transport plan.
National Cycle Network route three runs from Bristol to Sennen Cove in Cornwall via several key Somerset settlements, and is managed by Sustrans, the government’s active travel charity.
The section between Glastonbury and Wells primarily consists of quiet back roads heading north-east of Glastonbury, linking up with the Strawberry Line multi-user path near the Charlie Bigham food campus on the edge of the city.
Somerset Council has now made a public commitment to enhance this route as part of its local transport plan.
Glastonbury currently benefits from good walking and cycling links along the A39 between the town centre and the Tin Bridge roundabout, where the A39 Wells Road joins Old Wells Road near West Mendip Community Hospital.
This section, which ends at the junction with Long Drove, is intersected by numerous access points for local farms and is narrow and overgrown in places.
From Long Drove, road users have a choice: brave the busy A39 Wells Road into the city via Coxley, or follow route three north-east via Launcherley.
The route between Glastonbury and Wells was previously identified as a key ‘missing link’ on Somerset’s active travel network by Mendip District Council, which shortlisted this section in February 2021 as one of five key priorities for walking and cycling within the district.
Somerset Council’s local transport plan comes hot on the heels of the government announcing an additional £291m would be invested in walking and cycling improvements by the end of the 2025/26 financial year.
The lion’s share of this forms grants directly to local authorities to design and deliver new schemes, with Somerset Council receiving £2,775,438 on top of previous grants.
A further £30m will be provided to Sustrans to “deliver improvements to the National Cycle Network”.
National active travel commissioner Chris Boardman said: “Making it simple and safe to walk, wheel or cycle to schools, shops and workplaces is one of the most effective actions we can take to improve the nation’s health, economy and get to net zero, all in one.
“Free exercise, zero emissions and no risk of getting stuck in traffic are benefits already being enjoyed as standard by our European neighbours and it’s time we had the same life-improving choices.”
Simon Lightwood MP, minister for local transport, added: “Walking and cycling is an affordable way to get around and is hugely beneficial for both mental and physical health.
“Investing in our national cycling and walking infrastructure is a key part of our mission for growth and today’s investment will not only provide better connectivity, but boost local businesses, grow local economies and ease pressure on the NHS, helping us deliver our Plan for Change.”
The local transport plan also commits to other improvements in and around the town – including a 20mph zone “across parts of Glastonbury and Street”, improved bus stops along the A39 corridor, and additional evening bus services to serve the community hospital.