£5bn bid for mass transit system
Ambitions for a £5 billion “mass and rapid transit” system to operate in Bath and neighbouring Bristol have been revealed. If it happens, the system would make it possible to travel between Bristol centre and popular destinations such as Bristol Airport and Cribbs Causeway in 15 to 20 minutes. Connections to Bath are also in the vision, which was set out in the Weca (West of England Combined Authority) transport strategy. The Joint Local Transport Plan aims to solve the region’s traffic problems by getting people out of their cars. It states: “A mass transit network could dramatically improve journey times across the Bristol and Bath urban areas, achieving reliable 15-20 minute connections between Bristol city centre and the urban fringes and Bristol Airport; and Bath gaining easier and faster movement around the city.” It’s not yet clear what type of mass transit system will be used, but the plan says “light rail, tram, tram-train or underground” will be considered for the four major routes identified. One line would run south from Bristol city centre to Bristol Airport, another would run north to Cribbs Causeway via Southmead Hospital, and a third would travel to the eastern fringes of Bristol. A fourth line would eventually connect Bristol and Bath, with a longer-term ambition for light rail between the Hicks Gate and Keynsham area and Bristol Temple Meads. A fifth transport corridor for getting into and around Bath has also been identified, with work already under way to assess the possible reintroduction of trams to the heritage city. The tantalising prospect of underground rail is hinted at in the plan. “In some locations, it will be very challenging to achieve on-street running, particularly on routes through East Bristol, North Bristol and through some parts of South Bristol and on the Bristol to Bath corridor,” it says. “In these cases, some underground sections may be required.” Regional planners warn the mass transit scheme has an estimated cost of up to £5 billion and will take between 10 and 20 years to deliver. The bill could top more than £8.9 billion. Tim Bowles, West of England Mayor, said: “This is an ambitious plan to get people moving and tackle congestion, while supporting economic growth.” The plan is now due before the West of England Joint Committee tomorrow (November 30) before it goes out for public consultation in January.