The future ...?
When the railway is reopened, here are some thoughts on what life could be like...
- It will not just be Portishead people who will benefit – people from Portbury, Pill, and Easton in Gordano will be able to travel to Bristol by train.
- People living in Abbots Leigh will suffer less traffic through their village
- Bristol residents will gain by the reopening – there will be fewer North Somerset people clogging up Bristol’s streets!
- Tourists will be attracted by the superb route through the Avon Gorge, thus improving the line’s finances.
- Many people currently travel by road into Portishead to work in retail, office or light industrial developments and add to congestion at Junction 19. Their use of the train will enhance its viability.
- Some day-visitors to the Lake Grounds, Marina etc. may come by train thus reducing parking problems in Portishead.
- Occasional steam specials could be run down the Avon Gorge right to Portishead linking with steamers from Portishead Pier sailing down the Bristol Channel. (This is is unlikely as it would require a run-round loop at Portishead and longer platforms)
- In Phase 2 of MetroWest, Football supporters could once again travel to Bristol City’s ground from around the rail network, using the Ashton Gate platform, if opened, reducing the severe traffic problems on match days.
- If you agree this sounds like a better future, please support our campaign. How can I help?