PASSENGER NUMBERS have increased since the introduction of half-hourly train services between Yate and Bristol/Gloucester, it has been revealed. 

Following the introduction of half-hourly train services between Yate and Bristol Temple Meads plus Yate and Gloucester, Great Western Railway have confirmed a year-on-year increase in passengers in September of 15.6 per cent on the Bristol-Gloucester corridor.

The half hourly services, which were introduced as part of the MetroWest Phase 2 development along the South Gloucestershire and Bristol railway line, had long been part of Luke Hall MP’s campaign to Get Yate Moving.

Mr Hall campaigned for half-hourly trains for a number of years and called on Great Western Railway and the Government to deliver on their commitment to increase the frequency of train services from between Yate and Bristol, which previously had run only once an hour.

The MP has previously stated that half-hourly services would be invaluable to the local community and would make rail a more viable option for many people locally, reduce journey times, take cars off the road and reduce overcrowding on peak journeys.

Gazette Series: Luke Hall MP at the launch of the half-hour trains between Yate and Bristol/GloucesterLuke Hall MP at the launch of the half-hour trains between Yate and Bristol/Gloucester (Image: Luke Hall's office)In a parliamentary debate last year, the Yate MP succeeded in securing Government assurances that the half hourly series would be introduced and worked alongside Great Western Railway and the West of England Combined Authority to ensure the services went ahead as planned, without any further delay.

Mr Hall said, “It’s really encouraging to see the uptake in these new half hourly services, which are already making a big difference.

"There is more to do on public transport in Yate, but this is a step forward and I am pleased that another part of our Positive Plan has been delivered.”

Dan Okey, Head of Regional Commercial Development, said: "We are really pleased to have been able to deliver these extra services, funded by West of England Combined Authority as part of the wider MetroWest scheme, and to see the positive impact that they have made.

“The continued growth in demand shows just how important good rail connections are for the community and the economies they serve, and we look forward to being able to deliver further improvements in the future."