Pressure grows for Temple Meads Transport Hub
Written by Pete Goodwin Tuesday, 30 March 2010
A petition calling for a state-of-the-art transport hub at Temple Meads will be presented to Bristol City Council at its meeting this evening
The petitioners want Plot 6 [Note 1] (the development site between the station and the Temple Quay offices) to include a major bus, coach, and rapid transit station serving all parts of the city, so that all journeys within and through the city can be made with just one seamless and comfortable change.
For passengers, the hub would be centred on the station's 'Digby Wyatt Shed' - the covered extension to Brunel's original station that is now used only for car parking. There would be plenty of room for ticket and information offices, real-time information for all services (including the nearby ferry), and a concourse with retail and perhaps exhibition space.
Peter Goodwin, who will present the petition said:
"This could be a superb introduction to Bristol for visitors, while providing a safe, easy transfer for everyone making journeys across the city. It's the sort of thing most cities need - but here in Bristol we really have the opportunity, in Plot 6, to make it happen. Along with smart ticketting and real time information, it can transform public transport for everyone in Bristol. But unless the political will is there, it will be an opportunity lost"
"As well as the petition, people have been asking the planners to include the Plot 6 transport hub as part of the city's emerging Development Framework."
The Green Party fully supports the proposals.
Notes:
1. The land at present belongs to SWRDA and Network Rail. Plans had been drawn up to use the site for more offices, flats, and retail, but are thought to be on hold due to the recession. However, both landowners have public responsibilities, a commitment to sustainability, and should be able to adapt their plans
Contact:
Pete Goodwin 01275 543280, or 07772 306 205