Everything you need to know about Bristol’s travel changes

Bristol City Council has outlined plans to transform the city’s road network to accommodate an expected increase of 5,000 residents in the city centre over the coming years.

The proposals include new housing, student and co-living accommodations, offices, and retail spaces in areas such as Broadmead, Castle Park, and the city centre.

To support this growth, the council aims to prioritise cycling and bus transport by introducing segregated cycle lanes, new bus lanes, and re-routing some services. These changes are designed to tackle air pollution and encourage alternatives to car travel, such as walking and public transport.

Key proposals include a new north-to-south rapid bus transit route with faster journey times and enhanced bus priority through the city centre. Plans also involve pedestrianising parts of Broadmead, redesigning busy roads such as Bedminster Bridges and Bond Street, and creating a safer, connected cycle network spanning 2.17 miles.

Construction is expected to begin in late 2025, pending public consultation in summer 2025. Completion is scheduled for early 2027. Initial surveys indicate general public support for the project, though concerns remain among residents with disabilities, whose feedback will inform the final designs.

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