Bathscape programme leaves lasting legacy for nature, heritage and communities

A major partnership programme focused on Bath’s unique landscape has been hailed a success after delivering benefits for nature, wildlife and local communities over the past eight years.

The Bathscape Landscape Partnership Scheme, led by Bath & North East Somerset Council, has brought together organisations, landowners and local communities to help protect and enhance the city’s surrounding hills, green spaces and natural heritage.

Since launching in 2018, Bathscape has delivered 25 projects aimed at improving conservation, increasing public access, supporting wellbeing and helping people develop a deeper connection with the landscape around them.

The scheme was funded through a partnership involving the National Lottery Heritage Fund and organisations including the National Trust, Bath Preservation Trust, the University of Bath and Bath Spa University.

Over the course of the programme, more than 24,000 people have taken part in activities ranging from guided walks and community events to environmental projects and learning opportunities.

Seven walking festivals attracted around 4,250 participants, while more than 1,000 volunteers contributed approximately 3,000 days of their time helping to care for and improve local landscapes.

The programme has also focused on developing skills and knowledge, with more than 1,000 people receiving training and support to better understand and care for Bath’s natural environment.

Investment in habitat restoration and land management projects has helped strengthen biodiversity and improve resilience to climate change, creating benefits expected to continue long after the programme’s completion.

Councillor Sarah Warren, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Bath and North East Somerset, said the success of Bathscape demonstrated the value of collaboration.

She said: “Bathscape is a fantastic achievement and shows what can be done when organisations, communities and landowners work together with a shared vision.

“The landscape that surrounds Bath is fundamental to the city’s identity and by taking a joined-up preventative approach we are not only helping to protect nature but ensuring its benefits are shared more fairly across our communities.”

The programme secured £2.2 million in funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the World Heritage Enhancement Fund, Network Rail, Bath & North East Somerset Council and a range of partner organisations.

One of Bathscape’s most significant achievements has been helping establish Bath more clearly as a “landscape city”, recognising the close relationship between the city’s historic built environment and the surrounding countryside.

Council leaders say the concept is now embedded within local planning and strategic thinking, helping ensure the area’s natural setting remains a central part of Bath’s future development and identity.