A Freedom of Information (FOI) request suggests that while the number of reported offences on the popular Bristol and Bath Railway Path has risen markedly in recent years – including a violent attacked in August of this year being investigated as an attempted murder – none have resulted in charges since 2024. A police spokesperson said that “outcome figures should be viewed in context,” citing lack of witnesses and CCTV footage as common barriers to prosecution.
Crime and antisocial behaviour have long been seen as major issues on the 15-mile walking and cycling route to the extent that in 2024, South Gloucestershire Council launched a consultation on measures that would seek to make it “safer and more comfortable” for its users.
Cyclists had reported not feeling comfortable using the path at night, with one rider saying they favoured road routes on the basis that they felt, “safer between buses and cars”.
Responding to an FOI request submitted by the Bristol Post, Avon and Somerset Police said 32 offences were reported on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path last year after 35 in 2024. This compared to nine offences in 2023, eight in 2022 and 15 in 2021. Between January 1 and August 25 of this year, 16 offences were reported.
Though Avon and Somerset Police said those offences did occur on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, it also admitted it does not actually have a category specifically to identify offences committed on the path, the force instead relying on searching terms such as ‘Bristol and Bath or ‘Bristol or Bath’ to come up with its figures – meaning its dataset likely does not tell the full story.
Yesterday, police appealed for witnesses after three unknown offenders attempted to rob a man on a mobility scooter near Warmley on Friday September 18. The force is particularly keen to speak to a cyclist who passed through, “who may have disturbed the offenders.”
Reported offences are also recorded by type. Between 2024 and August 2026, the most common was ‘violence against the person’ (33) followed by ‘robbery offences’ (18) and ‘public order offences’ (12).
“Deeply alarming”
In a joint statement in August, following two violent attacks in two days, two local councillors described the incidents as “deeply alarming,” and added, “What should be a safe route for people walking, cycling, commuting and enjoying the outdoors has instead become the scene of serious criminal incidents.”
Commenting on the FOI data, Neighbourhood Inspector Barry Mabbett said: “While any report of crime is one too many, the overall numbers remain relatively low when considered across the entirety of the route.
“We continually review reports of crime and anti-social behaviour on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path and work with partners to ensure resources are deployed where they can have the greatest impact.
“We would encourage anyone who experiences crime or anti-social behaviour, or who has concerns about safety on the path, to report it to us.
“Our uniformed officers regularly carry out high visibility patrols along the railway path to provide reassurance and to deter criminality, and we will continue working alongside our partners to identify concerns and take appropriate action to keep the railway path a safe place for everyone to enjoy.”
Unidentified offenders
While arrests have been made and many offences remain under investigation, the FOI data suggests no charges have been brought since 2024.
A spokesperson for the force said: “Outcome figures should be viewed in context. Many offences reported on the railway path involve unidentified offenders and evidential opportunities can vary significantly depending on the circumstances of each case.
“Factors such as the availability of witnesses, CCTV footage, forensic opportunities, and victim support for a prosecution can all influence the outcome of an investigation.
“We remain committed to pursuing all reasonable lines of enquiry and bringing offenders to justice where the evidence supports doing so.”
Lights, cameras… action?
Following the outcome of last year’s consultation, South Gloucestershire Council is working to install 20 CCTV cameras along the railway path.
They will be situated between Teewell Hill in Staple Hill and Bitton Station. A spokesperson said the locations were, “carefully selected in response to reports of antisocial behaviour and criminal activity.”
In addition to this, over May and June of this year, solar lighting studs were trialled along a short stretch of the route after half of respondents to the previous consultation asked for lighting in addition to the original proposals.
The results of the trial will be considered before deciding whether the lighting will be installed along a stretch between Siston Hill Roundabout and Warmley Waiting Room.
