At Sustrans, we believe in building strong connections, not just with paths and green spaces, but with the people who use them. That's why we were thrilled to welcome Wera Hobhouse MP, a staunch advocate for cycling in Bath, to see first hand the recent improvements at the Devonshire Tunnel.
Wera Hobhouse MP, visiting the National Cycle Network in Bath
Working together to make active travel more accessible
The Two Tunnels route is a 13-mile loop featuring the well-loved Devonshire Tunnel which enables cyclists and walkers to continue their way to Midford, Wellow, Radstock and beyond.
But this shared-use path wasn't always a haven for active travel; it began as a bustling railway line on the Somerset and Dorset route.
In 2005 Sustrans began collaborating with community groups and partners to realise the dream of creating an active travel route that the whole community could be proud of.
Finally in 2013 that work paid off and the Two Tunnels route was born - almost 50 years after the last trains rumbled through it.
Today, this beloved stretch of the National Cycle Network functions as a green ribbon weaving through Bath.
It connects residents to work, schools, and the beauty of the surrounding countryside.
It’s a shining example of the network’s power, with over a quarter of a million journeys made by cyclists and walkers each year.
Overcoming Challenges, Building Resilience
This year the route faced significant flooding problems, rendering the Devonshire Tunnel impassible from December 2023 to April 2024 frustrating cyclists and walkers alike.
On her visit, Wera Hobhouse MP rightly pointed out that the flooding highlighted the need for a more resilient network.
We’ve joined forces with the Bath and North-East Somerset Highways and Parks teams not just to fix the problem, but to future-proof the route to ensure it can weather any storm.
After pumping the Devonshire Tunnel dry, our investigations revealed there an issue with the original railway drainage buried deep within the tunnel.
In response, the council is working to install a pump, avoiding the need for a new trench to access the drainage.
We’ve also upgraded lighting with new LED lights in the Devonshire Tunnel, and at Combe Down – which is the UK’s longest cycling and walking tunnel at 1,672 metres!
These measures were made possible thanks to funding from the Department for Transport.
Political backing
The National Cycle Network provides safe, green spaces that connect communities, improve air quality, and boost local economies.
A robust network is key to building a healthier, more connected, and sustainable future for everyone.
So, we're always excited to receive a visit from passionate politicians like Wera Hobhouse MP.
When she visited the path, she said: "The Devonshire Tunnel is vital for people in Bath - whether they're using it to get to work or enjoying an easy escape route into the countryside.
That makes the flooding we've seen incredibly disruptive. I recently discussed this with Sustrans, and it's great to hear they're working with Bath and North-East Somerset Council on a long-term fix.
We know that extreme weather is only going to increase. The Government must support Sustrans and landowners to ensure the National Cycle Network is reliable, whatever the weather."
Two Tunnels route, National Cycle Network
Beyond Bath - our Paths for Everyone project
Remember, this is just one chapter of the ongoing Paths for Everyone programme to improve the National Cycle Network.
Our overarching goal is to create a safe, accessible, and traffic-free network that can be enjoyed by everyone, facilitating smooth journeys to their desired destinations.
Arthur Girling, Principal Public Affairs and Policy Adviser at Sustrans, welcomed the MP and said: "It's great that Wera Hobhouse MP understands the importance of the Devonshire Tunnel for her constituents. We valued meeting her and showing her the improvements, we are making so that people can reliably use the Tunnel, however they're travelling.
As the Two Tunnels circuit demonstrates, the National Cycle Network is a lifeline for people across the UK, supporting businesses, schools, and communities in immeasurable ways. Sustrans is working hard to provide these green spaces that help areas thrive, thank you to Wera for her support as we continue this."
Your call to adventure
This rejuvenated path is an opportunity to explore, connect with nature, and enjoy the beauty of an accessible active travel route.
So why wait any longer? Slip into your hiking boots or hop on your bike and make your way through the Two Tunnels route in Bath.
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