New station near North Bristol gets fund approval to serve the Brabazon new town on the old Filton airfield, dubbed UK’s largest brownfield site.
The station might be called “North Filton” or “Brabazon.” It’s the first on the freight-only Henbury line. The station serves the Brabazon new town, which is on the old Filton airfield site.
The town’s design mirrors Copenhagen and was announced by Malaysia’s Prime Minister. Ian Boulton said it’s the UK’s biggest brownfield site at a meeting in January.
He noted the £2 billion investment, saying it shows faith in the region. He also emphasized that the station must be completed on time.
The combined authority approved a spending of £2.959 million. This covers early construction tasks, including getting materials and speeding up design. These tasks also involve connecting facilities. A full plan is still needed for the main work.
The funding comes from a larger pot totaling £72.6 million for “Metrowest Phase 2.” This should fund both new stations: Filton and Henbury. Already, £37.5 million was spent on other projects. Rising costs may exceed the funding amount.
Boulton envisions a larger district, not just a town, in Brabazon. An integrated transit system is essential, and the Filton station helps this system.
Kevin Guy agreed on the need for integrated plans. He also mentioned that Saltford’s station needs must be addressed.
Dan Norris, the local MP and Metro Mayor, concurred about Saltford.
Metrowest Phase 2 progresses slowly. Phase 1 involves reopening the line to Portishead. Funding is set locally, and construction could start this summer. However, the government reviews its contribution, and the project remains uncertain.
