RAIL passengers are set to benefit from an increase in services and reduced journey times after Network rail announced a £33 million project to double railway lines between Bristol’s two main stations.
The number of lines between Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway stations will be increased from two to four through Stapleton Road and Lawrence Hill. The extra lines will also enable an increase in freight services.
Known as the ‘Filton Four Tracks’ project, the work forms part of Network Rail’s Great Western Route Modernisation Programme to modernise and transform the Great Western Main Line from London Paddington through to Swansea.
Under a separate programme of work, this route will also benefit from electrification and a new fleet of faster, quieter and greener electric trains by December 2017.
Andrew Haynes, Network Rail’s project director for the west of England, said: “This is an exciting time for the growing city of Bristol. For the last two years we have been working closely with the city council to make sure this project becomes a reality and it’s great news that we are now only a matter of weeks away from the start of work on this vital upgrade.
“The doubling of the tracks between Temple Meads and Parkway stations, together with our work to electrify the Great Western Main Line, will mean that passengers, residents and businesses will benefit from an increase in services, reduced journey times and quieter, greener trains. “
Cllr Brian Allinson, chair of the West of England Joint Transport Board and transport member for South Gloucestershire, said: “This four tracking is vital for our MetroWest plans to improve the local rail services, and it’s a real milestone getting it started.
“The rail improvements, along with MetroBus, will provide so many more options for moving around and demonstrating to investors we are serious about investing locally.”
Work to double the railway lines will begin in December and will be undertaken by Taylor Woodrow, following the award of a £33m contract by Network Rail.
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