Bristol North West MP Darren Jones has compared plans to delay North Filton railway station to "putting the cart before the horse" as it's set to open two years after Bristol YTL Arena. The delay is blamed on design changes which are set to cause transport carnage for concerned goers when the Arena opens next to the Filton station in 2024.
In a letter to the managing director of Wales & Western Network Rail, Mr Jones said: "It is unthinkable to have a situation where we are putting the cart before the horse like this. From the outset, I have welcomed the Arena coming to North Bristol – but only if significant transport upgrades are made to prevent gridlock on our roads across Henbury, Brentry, Southmead and Horfield."
It is one of three new stations opening over the next few years, with services running from Bristol Temple Meads to Ashley Down, the arena, and Henbury. Mr Jones continued: "The new train station connecting the Arena to Temple Meads in only 15 minutes is a vital part of these transport upgrades. Until the new station opens, the nearest station will be more than a 30-minute walk from the Arena and lacks the train service frequency to meet the needs for large crowds."
