News / Bristol Bridge
Bristol Bridge to be closed permanently to cars
It is believed by many that the etymology of the word Bristol comes from the name ‘Bridge-town’.
Bristol Bridge was the original bridge over the River Avon. It has been a stone bridge since the 13th century which in its heyday had houses, shops and even a church built across it.
Today, it is at the heart of an experiment by the city council to reduce the number of motorised vehicles travelling into the city centre.
This 18-month trial will now be made permanent, with the council saying that after “careful consideration” of objections and comments, the closure of Bristol Bridge to general traffic will be made permanent from July 17.
This means that it will remain open for the likes of buses, taxis, cyclists, e-scooters and pedestrians, but it will be closed for cars, vans and lorries – with fines for any of these vehicles crossing the historic span.
Bristol mayor Marvin Rees said that the closure of Bristol Bridge “is part of our bold vision to deliver clean air and transform travel in the city”.
“I am delighted to make the change permanent after a successful trial,” Rees said.
“It has removed lots of polluting traffic from the central zone and improved bus punctuality and journey times, without causing significant problems elsewhere on the network.
“By creating more space for public transport, we are paving the way for a mass transit system that will connect us all to jobs, leisure and each other.
“This decision takes us one step closer to a better, more inclusive future with cleaner air, safer and better public transport, and improved walking and cycling routes for everyone.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
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