News / Transport
Busy bus route could be extended to new entrance of Temple Meads
A busy bus route could soon be extended to the new eastern entrance of Bristol Temple Meads and beyond.
Talks are ongoing about which routes would use the new bus stops which were installed at the University of Bristol’s new Enterprise Campus, behind the station.
Both the eastern entrance and the campus are due to open in September.
The 8 bus service runs from Clifton, past the university’s Student Union building, near the Clifton campus, down Park Street and around town, and then ending at the main western entrance to Temple Meads.
However there is potential for the route, or other routes, to be extended around to Cattle Market Road, where the new campus and entrance are located, and beyond onto St Philip’s Marsh.
An update was given to Bristol City Council’s economy and skills committee on Monday.
Karen Mercer, chief executive of Bristol Temple Quarter, said: “We know that the university has been working really closely on buses.
“Those conversations are still ongoing, as part of looking at accessibility, linking across to the eastern entrance and St Philip’s Marsh.”
The upcoming opening of the eastern entrance and university campus marks a major milestone for the Temple Quarter regeneration.
The entrance will make accessing the station quicker and easier for people coming from Brislington and other parts of east Bristol, while the shiny new campus replaces an infamous derelict eyesore, and should bring many new jobs to the area.
Liberal Democrat councillor Andrew Brown, chair of the economy committee, said: “I happened to pass by there yesterday, now that Sparke Evans bridge is reopened, I took advantage and I walked down. I saw those brand new bus stops … are they actually going to be used?”
First Bus was asked to comment. Soon St Philip’s Marsh will look completely different, due to the regeneration project.
The area east of Temple Meads bounded by the Feeder Canal and the River Avon is home to industrial buildings and car showrooms, but will eventually be home to flats, cafes, bars and shops.
This could include a canalside high street, along Feeder Road.
Main photo: Betty Woolerton
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