£3m approved for North Bristol station (North Filton or Brabazon). First on Henbury line, serving Brabazon new town on Filton Airfield land.
The new town boasts a Copenhagen design. The Malaysian Prime Minister announced it in London. Speaking on January 31, Ian Boulton called it the UK’s largest brownfield site and a £2bn investment. He stressed the station must be on time.
The combined authority approved £2.959m for pre-construction work. This includes buying materials, speeding up designs, and connecting to utilities. However, a full business plan still needs approval before major construction begins.
This money comes from a £72.6m fund for Metrowest Phase 2. It should cover both new stations, although costs are rising. Already, £37.5m has been spent elsewhere, including Ashley Down station and enhanced train services.
Boulton envisions a “new city district,” a step up from a new town. This requires a new station as part of an integrated transit system. The North Filton station is a crucial component.
Kevin Guy agreed on integrated transport and the need for a Saltford train station. Dan Norris, the local MP, also agreed about Saltford, understanding the need.
Metrowest Phase 2 moves forward, while Phase 1 (Portishead and Pill) is paused. Local funding is secured for Phase 1, and construction might start this summer. The new government reviews its funding share, pausing the project until approval.
