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Work begins on train track between Portishead and Bristol
Construction work has begun on a railway track running between Bristol and Portishead, which will allow passenger trains to run on the line for the first time in 60 years.
The £196m project will create two new stations, at Pill and Portishead, connecting them with Parson Street, Bedminster and Bristol Temple Meads in a 25-minute, hourly service.
Eventually, the line will continue to Bristol Brabezon and Aviva Arena, which are both under construction.
is needed now More than ever
This latest stage of the project has seen the start of work on the track itself, with the new stations already underway.
The restored railway will provide an hourly direct train from Portishead to Bristol Temple Meads in around 25 minutes – image: Network Rail
Due to open in 2028, the development follows a campaign of more than two decades by Portishead Railway Group for the line to be reopened.
In July 2025, the project was given the green light, with the government approving what was then thought to be the final £27.6m needed to get it going.
However, in April ministers had to approve a further £14.69m.
Councillor Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council said: “Residents have been calling for the reopening of railway stations at Portishead and Pill for generations, so I am pleased to now put spades in the ground.
“The reopened railway will unlock transport across the west and the rest of the country, whilst also creating an estimated £43 million of economic growth each year.
“I’d like to thank Lord Hendy and the UK government for their continued support for this project and our local partners, including Mayor Helen Godwin, for helping to create the opportunity it brings to the people of North Somerset, Bristol and beyond.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
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