News / Transport
Work to begin to complete the Old Market ‘gap’
It is a regular grumble among cyclists in Bristol that although our city does have some well-designed cycle lanes, they are too often disjointed.
So it is very good news indeed that work to complete the so-called Old Market ‘gap’ between the Old Market roundabout and Castle Park is starting on Monday.
The £1.2m scheme on the Castle Street and Tower Hill junction – funded by WECA through a grant from the Department for Transport’s Active Travel Fund – is due to be completed by April 2024.
Work to join the recently completed Old Market Roundabout cycle route with Castle Park will begin on Monday – image: Bristol City Council
There will be a new segregated cycle route on Tower Hill; protected pedestrian spaces that connect the Old Market roundabout with Castle Street; and wider and safer crossing points for people walking and cycling
The Bristol City Council news release announcing the start of construction work says that “it is hoped cyclists will use this new route in favour of the Temple Way underpass as it is much quieter and cyclists and pedestrians will no longer need to share space, reducing conflict and potential accidents”.
A new segregated cycle route will be constructed on Tower Hill with protected pedestrian spaces – image: Bristol City Council
Cabinet member for transport, Don Alexander, said: “I’m delighted that work is starting to improve this junction for pedestrians and cyclists, offering an alternate route to the Temple Way underpass which can get very busy.
“It’s a key priority of this administration to continue to make our roads safer and more accessible for all, to encourage more people to travel actively and improve their health while helping us to cut congestion and air pollution in the city.
“This is one of a series of projects that we’re progressing to make cycling and walking throughout Bristol a safer and more pleasant experience.”
The scheme will close a gap in the current cycle route heading from east to west – image: Bristol City Council
Main image: Bristol City Council
Read next:
- The strange beauty of Bristol’s underpasses
- ‘I want a city which prioritises cyclists, walkers and wheelers over cars’
- More segregated cycle lanes coming soon
- Work begins to build new cycle lane on Bristol Bridge
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