Timescales
The Portishead line is reopening as a key part of the MetroWest project.
The full Network Rail 8-stage GRIP process has to be followed through from GRIP 1. Detail design work (GRIP 5) is complete.
The gaining of Development Consent Order (DCO) approval was a crucial milestone, being approved by the Secretary of State in November 2022.
The new Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, cancelled the Restoring your Railways fund last year. Although this project was not cancelled, there was a delay for a review by the Government. Now with some additional funding and Government support, full go-ahead has finally been given. See News 8 July 2025.
Initial preparatory work has started, with main construction to begin in early 2026.
See also News, Current Situation and FAQs.
