News / Transport
Controversial bus gates to be moved and removed as part of EBLN changes
A bus gate in Barton Hill will be completely removed and another’s position altered as part of major changes set to be made to the East Bristol Liveable Neighbourhood trial scheme.
Changes announced to take place in the coming months include:
- Moving the bus gate on Avonvale Road to Marsh Lane’s junction with Mildred Street, to allow a left turn from Marsh Lane onto Avonvale Road
- Removing the bus gate on Marsh Lane to improve access between Feeder Road, Barton Hill and St Phillip’s Causeway
- Replacing the bollards at Ducie Road bridge and The Avenue with camera enforcement
- Removing the planters on Victoria Avenue West between where it meets Byron Street and Morse Road to improve access to surrounding residential streets
Bristol City Council are also considering “specific and time limited bus gate exemptions” at Pile Marsh to give access to Church Road for residents most affected by the banned turns at Blackswarth Road’s junction with Chalks Road.
Further changes if the EBLN scheme is made permanent includes improving Church Road’s junction with Blackswarth Road to allow a left turn onto Church Road and a right turn from Church Road onto Blackswarth Road.
The traffic islands would also be removed here to create single stage crossings for pedestrians.
The bus gate on Marsh Lane is due to be completely removed after being put in place by council contractors with the help of police officers under the cover of darkness – photo: Martin Booth
Changes to to the trial measures come with the long-awaited publication of the EBLN Engagement Report and the EBLN Monitoring Report.
Bristol City Council deputy leader, Heather Mack, said: “We have reviewed the data carefully and listened to what people have told us, including key stakeholders such as the emergency services.
“While the East Bristol Liveable Neighbourhood trial is generally achieving its aims, we know that’s not the whole story.
“For many residents and businesses, some of the measures haven’t worked and have caused frustration.
“That’s why we’re aiming to make significant changes in the short-term, ahead of a decision next year on whether to go ahead with the permanent scheme.
“These adjustments are designed to improve access for everyone, including supporting access to businesses, while keeping the benefits of the Liveable Neighbourhood.
“We want to show that we care and that we are listening, as we will continue to do.
“Your feedback is helping to shape this pilot project, and we are committed to getting it right for east Bristol communities.”
If the decision is made to make the Liveable Neighbourhood permanent, a full business case will be submitted to the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority to request the funding needed.
West of England mayor Helen Godwin said: “It’s clear that lessons are being learned and these proposed changes seem to be a step in the right direction.
“Alongside this analysis, we have commissioned a fully independent review of the East Bristol Liveable Neighbourhood trial – with all the data – ahead of considering any bids for further regional funding.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
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