A grassroots petition has put Novers Hill under the spotlight
14:26, 02 Jun 2025Updated 14:26, 02 Jun 2025
Novers Hill in Knowle(Image: Google Maps Street View)
A passionate campaign to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety on Novers Hill in Knowle West is set to take centre stage today (Monday, June 2).
The petition, titled ‘A Safe Footpath/Cyclepath Along Novers Hill, Bristol’, urges Bristol City Council to construct a dedicated footpath and cycle lane along the narrow and frequently trafficked route.
With 450 signatures—315 of them from Bristol residents—the proposal has exceeded the threshold required to prompt formal consideration under the council’s petition scheme.
Campaigners have argued that the lack of a designated footway puts vulnerable users at daily risk.
“Novers Hill currently lacks a designated footpath for pedestrians, making it hazardous for those walking in the area,” the petition stated.
It described the road as “narrow, with limited visibility” and heavily used by two-way traffic, posing a threat to “children, elderly residents, cyclists, parents with pushchairs and those with mobility challenges”.
The document further highlights the impact on accessibility and environmental goals. It said: “A safe footpath/cyclepath would promote walking/cycling and reduce car dependency, contributing to Bristol’s environmental goals.”
The petition called for “a feasibility study and funding allocation for this project in the next council budget” and urges the council to “take immediate action”.
Organised by Owen Lord, the campaign has gained momentum among residents who rely on non-car travel in the area. Under council procedure, Mr Lord will have five minutes to present the case, followed by a 15-minute discussion among councillors.
Councillors will then decide whether to support the petition in principle and refer the matter to the Strategic City Transport Team, or simply note the petition without committing to further action.
If endorsed, the proposal would move closer to being formally assessed and potentially included in future funding plans.
The outcome of Monday’s debate could mark a significant step in transforming Novers Hill into a safer, more inclusive thoroughfare for all.