Bath and North East Somerset stretches from the outskirts of Bristol, south into the Mendip Hills and east to the southern Cotswold Hills and Wiltshire border.
Two thirds of the area’s 570 sq km (220 sq miles) is green belt, combining great natural beauty with some of the most significant historical treasures found anywhere in Europe.
Approximately half the 170,000 population live in Bath, a World Heritage Site and one of the world’s great cities, famed for its hot springs, Georgian architecture and Roman antiquities. Links to the University of Bath and Bath Spa University ensure, however, that the area is home to a vibrant commercial economy. The two universities complement each other lending their strengths particularly to specialist technology companies and creative industries.
As the largest town in North East Somerset, Keynsham occupies a key strategic position. With excellent links to the M4 and M5 motorways and situated on a main line railway service, Keynsham is a vibrant local centre with a strong community and regular local events.
Midsomer Norton and Radstock are important residential and commercial centres in the south of the district. The area boasts its own unique industrial heritage, being the site of the former Somerset coalfield.