Tram feasibility study
Trams: The best mass transit choice for Bristol
A new study of routes makes the case for trams as the key to Bristol’s transport future.
The expert study builds on the wide agreement that Bristol needs a new mass-transit system to ease gridlock and clean the air.
Detailed appraisal of three essential tram routes shows they are economically viable. And there are no engineering or traffic management blockers to installation.
The routes are suitable for “new generation” trams, which would cost up to 50 per cent less per kilometre than older tram systems. Bristol could leapfrog other cities, adopt this technology, and achieve a substantial shift from car use, the study says.
The report is offered as a “pre-feasibility study”, as Bristol Council and the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) develop their proposals for a new mass transit system. Ideas mooted before the two mayoral elections in May included a mixed under-and-overground system. WECA plans a consultation on the options this Summer.
Emilia Melville, co-ordinator of the Moving Bristol Forward Campaign, said, “We have submitted our report to all the local authorities in the region and to WECA as a contribution to this vital discussion. We look forward to engaging with them as we continue to argue for efficient, equitable, low carbon transport in Bristol and WECA region. Trams are top of our list for more detailed consideration in planning for a 21st century transport system for our city.”
Detailed route studies focused on potential demand, reallocation of road space (from private cars to public transport and active travel) and tram network management - designation of Public Transport Pathways (PTPs) and multi-purpose tram stops. The report highlights two potential commuter ‘starter lines’
along the A38 North from a proposed Park+Ride near the M5 to the city centre
and from a proposed Park+Ride at the Globe Inn on the A4 Bath Rd to the city centre.
A third radial route is assessed along the A38 South to the airport which includes a Bishopsworth - Imperial Park circular to serve the BS13 area.
Moving Bristol Forward is a project overseen by the Transport for Greater Bristol Alliance and Zero West CIC, and supported by the Foundation for Integrated Transport.
The report was commissioned from Professor Mike Gibson, Chair LCT Ltd and Jim Harkins, Chair LR (UK)
Image by by MW Creative Services