Today [31 July], transport secretary Mark Harper has officially opened a new railway station near Avonmouth, an outer suburb of Bristol.
The multimillion-pound Portway Park and Ride station was supported by both government and local authority funding and marks the first new station to open in Bristol in 96 years.
Starting tomorrow [1 August], trains will service the single-platform station, which forms part of the Severn Beach line.
The journey from the new station into Bristol city centre will take just 24 minutes, with the line being operated by Great Western Railway.
Mark Harper, transport secretary, said: “Today’s opening of Portway Park and Ride Station is the latest example of this government’s plan to invest in infrastructure and grow the economy.
“It will provide a boost to Bristol and its surrounding area by improving local transport links while connecting passengers to business hubs and thousands of high-skilled job opportunities.”
What’s more, the new transport link is hoped to ease congestion on local roads and provide an additional transport option for the 9,000 people who work in the region.
Marvin Rees Mayor of Bristol said: “Portway Park and Ride station will offer local people and commuters an efficient and sustainable travel option.
“…Completion of the railway station highlights our commitment to developing modern and accessible travel solutions. As we look toward a future of improved connectivity through a mass transit system, Portway Park and Ride is a key step on our journey towards a better connected Bristol and South West.
DfT has said the new site is accessible. According to South Western Railway, it has step-free access across the whole station, including the platform, and a train ramp.
It is reportedly also equipped with accessible ticket machines and audio induction loops, an assistive listening technology for those with hearing impairments.
However, there is no lowered ticket counter, nor are there staff, accessible taxis or accessible toilets available at the station.
This will be Britain’s 2,577th railway station and follows the opening of Marsh Barton station in the South West earlier this month.
DfT has said these recent investments in infrastructure form part of wider government efforts to grow the economy and boost connectivity across the UK.
