Debate continues over Filwood Quietway

Discussions are still being held between local groups and Bristol City Council about the proposed walking and cycling route through the Northern Slopes.

Meetings about the Filwood Quietway proposals and a site visit took place in March and April.

The Northern Slopes Initiative (NSI), a group of volunteers who help maintain the area, wants to ensure the Slopes are included as a ‘destination’ as well as a ‘through route’ if the Quietway goes ahead  – and that it benefits walkers and nature lovers as well as cyclists.

Chair of the NSI Bob Franks said: “…The likely Bristol City Council proposed route through the Slopes is very steep and will necessitate a zig-zag format to make it feasible; thereby taking up still more of the Nature Reserve…”

As with Victoria Park, the group is concerned removing the gates would encourage “unlawful motorcycle use and more fly tipping” as well as “serious confrontations with pedestrians”.

Mr Franks added: “In due course this could readily mean building on the site as the track will be a virtual road with installed electrical power…”

A Bristol City Council spokesperson said there were still no fixed plans for this section of the Filwood Quietway and potential ideas were “subject to discussion with the community.”

He said: “…As part of the discussions around the route, we are also considering what other improvements to the Glyn Vale Open Space could be provided to try and reduce any potential impact a route may have on the environment of the park, if it is decided that the route should go through it.

“This could include improving existing park facilities to make sure the area benefits from being included in the scheme.”