Transport Plans to revamp city centre roads to take step forward

MAJOR step forward looks set to be taken this week for controversial changes to several roads in the city centre.

- Alex SEABROOK Local democracy reporter

Over the next few years, road-works will completely revamp Bond Street, Union Street, Broadmead, the Horsefair, the Haymarket, and the Redcliffe roundabout.

The changes include installing new bus lanes and bike lanes in a bid to cut congestion and air pollution. Transport bosses at Bristol City Council are hoping to encourage fewer people to drive and more to get the bus, walk or cycle instead, but that first requires upgrading infrastructure.

Councillors on the transport policy committee are expected to sign off the latest stage of the works on Thursday although some are already unhappy with the proposed plans. Ahead of the committee meeting, new images and details of the changes have been revealed.

Green Councillor Ed Plowden, chair of the transport committee, said: "It's exciting to see these transformative projects take shape. The plans for the Broadmead area are about more than improving transport routes and mark the beginning of a huge regeneration of the area that will see new homes and retail and leisure facilities developed.

"In preparation, we need to improve bus routes and create pedestrian-friendly spaces that make it easier and more pleasant to travel actively. Adapting transport routes to meet these future needs is vital, especially as many more people who move into the area will rely on walking, wheeling, cycling, and public transport.

"This is a significant shift for the area, but it paves the way for our vision of a well-connected city with clean air and plenty of sustainable transport options. We have also increased the amount of disabled parking overall, with new bays planned closer to the pedestrianised area, and we will be maintaining the current numbers throughout this ambitious construction programme."