Work has begun on a major project to restore passenger rail services between Portishead and Bristol for the first time in more than 60 years, marking a significant milestone in efforts to improve transport connectivity across North Somerset.
Backed by more than £63 million in government funding, the scheme will reinstate the Portishead line, reconnecting more than 50,000 people to the national rail network and providing a faster, more reliable link to Bristol Temple Meads.
The project forms part of a wider £197 million funding package agreed between the government, the West of England Combined Authority and North Somerset Council. Services are expected to begin in 2028, with journey times between Portishead and Bristol Temple Meads taking around 25 minutes.
The restored route will provide an hourly service between Portishead and Bristol Temple Meads, with stops at Pill, Parson Street and Bedminster. It is expected to improve access to employment, education and housing while generating an estimated £43 million in economic growth for the region each year.
The scheme includes upgrading 5.5 miles of existing freight railway, restoring a further three miles of former railway line and constructing two new stations at Portishead and Pill. The development is particularly significant for Portishead, which is currently one of the largest towns in England without a railway station.
Future plans also envisage the route extending through to Bristol Brabazon, one of the UK's largest regeneration developments, and the new Aviva Arena, providing residents and visitors with improved access to major sporting, entertainment and cultural events.
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said: "For the first time in more than 60 years, local communities are on track to regain access to the railway, opening up new and improved opportunities for jobs, growth and housing.
"By restoring this line, we're improving everyday journeys, strengthening local transport links and helping unlock the economic potential of North Somerset and the wider region."
Train services on the reopened route are being developed by
Great Western Railway (GWR), which will move into public ownership later this year before becoming part of Great British Railways (GBR). The government says GBR will create a more integrated rail network focused on improving reliability, reducing delays and delivering a better passenger experience.
Joanna Grew, Western Route Strategy Director for
Network Rail and Great Western, described the start of construction as a major achievement for both the project team and local communities.
"Seeing this project taking shape is a proud moment for everyone involved and for the 50,000 people who will be reconnected to the rail network for the first time in decades," she said.
"This is about more than track and trains; it's about unlocking access to jobs, education and opportunity and providing a real economic catalyst for the wider region.”
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, said: "This is a landmark moment, and it is fantastic to see work finally beginning on stations that people in Portishead and Pill have campaigned incredibly hard for.
"The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, North Somerset Council and our industry partners are delivering these long-awaited stations, laying the foundations for a stronger and more connected rail network."
Pic: Artist's impression of the new Portishead station