Rail line which last served passengers 60 years ago is reinstated
Portishead to Bristol Temple Meads has received a government cash injection.
Passengers across the South West are set to benefit from significantly enhanced rail connectivity, as the Government today announced the reinstatement of passenger services between Portishead and Bristol City Centre, along with plans for two brand new stations.
The Government has announced a further £27.6 million investment to reopen the railway for passengers, which last ran sixty years ago.
The scheme will be delivered in partnership with West of England Combined Authority and North Somerset Council who are providing local funding contributions.
Today’s announcement also includes two new stations between Exeter and Taunton, providing new connections across the South West.
This infrastructure will support the towns of Cullompton and Wellington and provide new opportunities for local jobs and housing growth.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:
“Transport is the backbone of our economy, which is why we are giving them the record funding boost they need, putting taxpayer’s money where it matters most and making every day journeys easier.
“We are also bringing back rail services between Portishead and Bristol City Centre to better connect people with jobs, education, and new opportunities.
“With over £92 billion investment we’re delivering the schemes that fast-track economic growth and jobs, connect communities, and will help us build 1.5 million new homes, as we deliver our Plan for Change.
“We’re forging ahead with the vital new transport infrastructure Britain needs, and improving what we’ve already got, to deliver a new era of renewal and opportunity.”
It comes as the Government greenlights over fifty road and rail upgrades across the country, as part of the £92 billion of transport investment in the Spending Review, supporting 42,000 jobs, enabling 1.5 million new homes, and improving connectivity for 50,000 people as part of its Plan for Change.