Transport Long-awaited plans to reopen rail line finally confirmed

THE Government has confirmed it will be reopening the Portishead Railway after “too many false starts”.

- John WIMPERIS

The Department for Transport will today announce the project to reopen the railway will receive the vital multi-million pound government investment it needs to make it happen. The long-awaited scheme will see new stations built in Portishead and Pill and the railway, which closed to passengers in 1964, connecting the town and village to Bristol Temple Meads once again.

The Government has said it will put another £27.6million towards the £180million scheme, as it announces funding for a host of transport schemes across Somerset and the country. 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 everyday 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.”