Local residents who live in and around the Somer Valley are being urged to help shape the future of public transport in their area.

A consultation has been launched asking locals to make big choices as they give their views on proposals to make taking the bus an easier and more pleasant experience as well as changes to walking and cycling routes - all between Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Westfield and other West of England towns and villages on to the region's two cities in Bath and Bristol.

Residents are encouraged to have their say, while taking on board that all the projects will bring with them trade-offs and compromises.

Local people are being asked for views on extending specific bus lanes, new and upgraded cycle lanes as well as changes to bus stops, along the A362, A367 to Bath and A37 to Bristol.

Residents first gave their views on the 'Somer Valley Links' project in late 2021 and this feedback has shaped today's updated proposals. Responses from residents showed that their priority is to make improvements to cycling and walking, with 70% rating safety along the route as poor.

The plans are part of a wider £540 million programme from the Mayoral Combined Authority, led by Mayor Dan Norris, to improve public transport across the region. The project is being delivered in close partnership with Bath & North East Somerset Council.

Locals can attend three in person drop-in sessions to learn more about the proposals and ask questions. These are:

• Wednesday 12 July (2pm to 7pm) - Trinity Methodist Church, Radstock
• Wednesday 19 July (3pm to 8pm) - St Luke's Church Centre, Hatfield Road, Bath
• Monday 24 July (2pm to 7pm) - Farrington Gurney Memorial Hall

There will also be a further online session on Thursday 6 July between 6.30pm and 7.30pm. To register and for more details about the proposals, visit www.haveyoursaywest.co.uk

All feedback will help to finalise these 'Somer Valley Links' designs. The consultation is open until midnight 6 August 2023. To request a paper copy of the consultation materials, contact 07436 601889 or email [email protected]