Bristol’s transport scene is evolving with new plans for trams, train stations, and bus services by 2025, aiming to improve mobility for residents.
Bristol: Getting around the city has been a bit of a hassle lately for nearly half a million folks. Whether you drive, cycle, or take public transport, it’s been a mixed bag. But hey, there are some big changes on the horizon for 2025!
Over the past year, e-scooter riders have faced some ups and downs. Voi, the popular e-scooter service, lost its contract in October 2023 to Tier, a rival company. Then, Tier merged with Dott, which led to higher prices and some service changes that left many riders grumbling.
People took to social media to voice their frustrations, especially about issues like faulty kickstands and trouble finding a place to park their scooters. Dott’s price hike didn’t help either, leading to complaints directed at the West of England Combined Authority, who made the switch from Voi.
Transport officials are now reviewing the situation and will soon decide whether to extend Dott’s contract, which is set to end next October. Many riders are hoping for Voi’s return.
On a brighter note, bus passengers got some good news! The birthday bus scheme is back, offering free rides during your birthday month. It’s a fun way to encourage more people to hop on public transport instead of driving, though some critics think it’s just a gimmick.
There’s also been some movement on bus franchising, which would bring buses under public control, similar to what they have in London. After a lot of back and forth, the combined authority is finally looking into how this could work in Bristol.
Thanks to funds from the Clean Air Zone, some bus services will get a boost starting in April. Councillors are figuring out which routes need support, especially the ones that aren’t profitable. Still, many folks prefer driving because the bus network could use some serious improvements.
Bus ridership is back to pre-pandemic levels, which is great news. But with the new Labour government raising fare caps from £2 to £3, it might not be welcomed by everyone. In Bristol, fares will be capped at £2.40.
The Clean Air Zone, launched in November 2022, requires drivers of polluting vehicles to pay to enter certain areas. The initial results were mostly positive, and another report is expected soon to show how it’s doing in its second year.
In May, former mayor Marvin Rees wrapped up his time in office, leaving behind hopes for an underground metro. Instead, transport officials are now considering an overground mass transit system, possibly trams or an expanded Metrobus network. The Greens, who now lead the council, are keen on building a tram network.
But don’t expect any major construction until at least the 2030s. It’s a long process to secure government funding, which means a lot of money goes to consultants to prove the plans are worth it.
In the meantime, a new train station, Ashley Down, opened this year, with a couple more on the way. It connects passengers to Temple Meads and Filton Abbey Wood, but the hourly service isn’t exactly convenient.
Two more stations are in the works, with North Filton set to serve a new indoor arena by 2026, and Henbury station is also on the list, though its timeline is uncertain. Plans for Portishead and Pill stations were scrapped by the new Labour government.
Bristol’s first liveable neighborhood has rolled out in parts of St George, Redfield, and Barton Hill. It aims to reduce traffic through residential areas, but not everyone is on board. Some residents appreciate the changes, while others feel it complicates things for those who rely on cars.
A second liveable neighborhood is planned for Bedminster and surrounding areas, with public consultations already underway. Changes are expected to roll out around 2026 or 2027.
There’s also a big consultation happening for city center changes, including pedestrianizing certain areas and adding new bike lanes. These changes are also slated for 2026 or 2027.
Parking is set to change too. The Greens are working on a workplace parking levy, which would charge drivers in some city center areas. The funds would go towards improving transport in Bristol, with some exemptions for hospital workers.
In 2024, one bridge reopened while another closed for repairs, making commutes a bit longer for some. And in a quirky twist, the Clifton Suspension Bridge made headlines for leaving X/Twitter, sparking a wave of jokes.
