Four weeks of roadworks will start next month on one of the main roads into Bristol. It is the first work to take place as part of a major scheme to improve bus services across the region.
North Somerset Council is working alongside the West of England Combined Authority to implement the joint Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP). As well as infrastructure such as new bus lanes, the plan also includes a fares support package and plans to increase bus frequencies.
Long Ashton Bypass will be the first road to get a new bus lane, with work starting on Monday, March 13. The bus lane will go towards Bristol and will see lanes for cars reduced to one lane in each direction, replacing the currently high occupancy lane on the bypass through to the Gurney roundabout.
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Cameras will be installed along the bypass to catch drivers who use the bus lane when they should not. The roadworks are expected to take four weeks to complete, with the majority of the work due to take place at night.
There will be part and full closures of the A370 between 8pm and 6am. Diversions to the A38 will be put in place during any road closures.
Long Ashton Bypass is the first of eighteen planned bus improvements works to help make bus travel the first choice for travellers. Other initial schemes include Barrow Gurney, Brockley Coombe, Wood Hill, Beggar Bush Lane junction and Marcombe Road, south of the M5.
Steve Hogg, executive member for transport and highways at North Somerset Council, said: “Securing this money is a major boost for travel across North Somerset and it’s great to see our plans for improved bus services coming to life so quickly. Introducing a bus lane on one of the key routes into Bristol will make public transport an easier and quicker route choice for many people travelling to work or for leisure.
“These improvement works will result in more services and increased frequencies which are key to enabling people to travel around North Somerset by public transport, offering equal access to employment, shopping and leisure.”
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