News / Bristol Temple Meads
Network Rail withdraws plans for more digital ad screens at Temple Meads
Campaigners are celebrating after Network Rail withdrew their plans for more digital advertising screens at Bristol Temple Meads.
As previously reported in Bristol24/7, Network Rail had hoped to install five new units in the ticket hall, subway and at Bonaparte’s Gate.
Dozens of objections were received for the plans, which despite now being withdrawn could well come back to a Bristol City Council planning committee at a later date.
Campaign group Adblock Bristol now want the station’s existing advertising screens to be removed.
Adblock Bristol’s Robbie Gillett said: “We call on Network Rail to remove all moving video content from advertising screens, allowing only static imagery (in the immediate term); remove the existing screens from Bristol Temple Meads subway passage (as soon as possible); and phase out advertising screens across the network in the medium term.
“The visual realm is a public realm and should not be dominated by corporate brands screaming ever louder for our attention. Let us travel in peace.”
Two of the proposed digital ad screens were planned to be erected in the main concourse at Temple Meads – image: Network Rail
A Network Rail spokesperson told Bristol24/7: “The listed building consent application for new advertising screens at Bristol Temple Meads was withdrawn following discussions with Bristol City Council.
“We’re currently working with planning officers to address the points raised and will continue to work closely with Bristol City Council to ensure any future proposals are sensitive to the station’s Grade I listed status.
“There are no plans to remove the existing digital screens, which provide an important source of revenue that helps support the upkeep and operation of Bristol Temple Meads without placing an additional burden on taxpayers.
“These screens also form part of our emergency messaging system, ensuring critical safety information can be delivered rapidly throughout the station when required.”
One of the advertising screens was due be located outside Bonaparte’s Gate – photo: Martin Booth
Main photo: Martin Booth
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