Great Western Coffee Shop

The company which owns Temple Meads has drawn up a multi-million pound plan to transform Isambard Kingdom Brunel's iconic station.

The station is owned by Network Rail and the organisation has announced it is to launch a feasibility study into its ambitious plans.

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An artists's impression of the redevelopment of the Temple Meads area in Bristol

The work will coincide with the ^1 billion electrification of the Great Western line between Bristol and London.

As part of the scheme the approach to the station is to be closed off to traffic and turned into a pedestrian- friendly piazza. And there are also plans to create a new main entrance to the station at the side of the building. The move will mean the entrance would be in the same spot originally planned by Brunel.

The redevelopment work is also being planned to coincide with the creation of a new Enterprise Zone and is expected to be completed by 2018.

More than nine million passengers use the station every year and that total is expected to increase by around 50 per cent over the next decade.

The electrification of the Great Western Railway will mean that trains will arrive in Bristol from the capital every 15 minutes. Two disused platforms are to be reopened and a new terminus built for the London services. There are also hopes that rail links between Bristol, South Wales, the South West and the North will be improved.

A new subway under the existing forecourt is also on the cards, complete with shops and concession stands. It is hoped that improvement and refurbishment work can be carried out on the ornate facade of the station.

Work is also being carried out on platforms and junctions so the number of trains coming into the station can be increased.

A spokesman for Network Rail said: "Temple Meads is located right in the heart of the new Enterprise Zone and is among the busiest and fastest growing rail interchanges in the country. The rail industry, with support from the Greater Bristol area, including the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership, is currently developing a strategy to transform Bristol Temple Meads station into a world-class gateway for the city by the end of the decade."

If all goes to plan the refurbishment will start in the spring of 2014 and would be completed by 2018, when the new super-fast service between London and Bristol is launched.

The Post revealed some details of the new Enterprise Zone yesterday. An official launch for the zone was taking place today at a temporary circus tent which has been erected on land normally used as a car park next to the station.

The Local Enterprise Partnership is the driving force behind the ambitious scheme which could create up to 20,000 new jobs in the city.

Coln Skellett, the chairman of the of the LEP, said: "What we want is a world-class station to welcome people travelling to Bristol to do business with companies in the Enterprise Zone. Temple Meads has been in need of some attention for several years and we want to see it restored back to its former glory."

Work by developers TCN UK has already started on Collett House, which is next to the station, to turn it into a creative and digital campus, called Temple Studios. The scheme follows the first phase of their same company's Temple Gate project, which started with the redevelopment of the historic Bristol and Exeter House next to the current station approach.

As reported in the Post, the Government agency the Homes and Community Association has bought Brunel's Old Station building for ^5 million.

It will hand over the building to the city council and it will be used as a conference centre and hub for new businesses looking to move into the Enterprise Zone.

The nearby Pest Control Depot in Cattle Market Road is also being demolished to make way for a new bridge, which will connect the site earmarked for the long-awaited indoor arena to the Enterprise Zone and the rest of the city.

We aim to expand the station to ease congestion and provide excellent connectivity to London, the South West, Wales and the North.

Patrick Hallgate, our route managing director for Western said: ^Growing Bristol^s railway is vital to the success of the city^s new enterprise zone. A robust rail infrastructure is vital to a thriving economy and the rail industry is poised to support Bristol with an integrated rail strategy.

^Bristol Temple Meads is located right at the heart of the enterprise zone and is among the busiest and fastest growing rail interchanges on the Western route, receiving more than nine million passengers on average every year. Redeveloping the station into a world-class rail gateway, with excellent rail links, will be significant to help position the new business district as an ideal location for investment, whilst boosting economic growth and catering for growing rail demand.^

Feasibility study

We're leading a high-level feasibility study currently being carried out to determine the validity of this proposal, which is subject to Government funding.

Our proposal includes:

Station capacity improvements to ease current and predicted passenger congestion
A new eastern station access to ease congestion and provide a convenient link across and around Temple Quarter
A light and airy subway extension under the existing forecourt to provide a welcoming environment and improve retail opportunities for local businesses, whilst preserving the vistas of the historic grade 1 listed structure
Redeveloping the Digby Wyatt shed to bring it back to its former usage and reinstating two disused platforms for more train services

Additional improvements

We also recommend a number of improvements to the infrastructure to provide better journey times and more space, as well as flexibility on the railway around Bristol.

These recommendations include remodelling a key junction into the station area, additional infrastructure on the line to Bristol Parkway and improving the line-speed to the south west.

Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone could bring jobs and new arena to Bristol

BRISTOL'S economy could be transformed and thousands of new jobs created under a new masterplan revealed today by the Post.

The city's Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone will be officially launched tomorrow ^ and with it, a blueprint for the Temple Meads area which includes a complete revamp of the city's main station and plans for a long-awaited indoor arena.

The team behind the ambitious scheme has come up with a 25-year vision designed to breathe new life into large chunks of the city and create a vibrant business, commercial and shopping district.

New squares and public spaces, a marina, roads and infrastructure are included.

The zone, drawn up by a partnership involving business leaders and the city council, comes with perks such as relaxed planning conditions, concessions on business rates and access to ultra-fast broadband.

The team behind the scheme wants to use potential income from the area to raise ^200 million worth of funding to help pay for infrastructure work.

The scheme will be officially launched tomorrow at an event at a temporary circus tent next to the station, which will be used to stage events throughout the summer. The aim is to give the new area a running start and attract interest from investors.

The creation of the Temple Meads Enterprise Zone was first announced by Chancellor George Osborne in last year's Budget.

The ultimate aim is to create 17,000 new jobs and bring 400 new firms to the city over the next two decades. The city's Local Enterprise Partnership, the organisation which is masterminding the scheme, has high hopes that the BBC will move its Bristol operation from Whiteladies Road on to vacant land next to the station and discussions have been taking place for several months.

The other major element of the scheme is a plan to build a 12,000-seat indoor arena on vacant land behind the station. The former diesel depot site was originally owned by the now-axed South West Regional Development Agency, which pumped ^20 million into the project, only to then decide it was not viable.

But the LEP, which has taken over the agency's development role in Bristol, has come up with a cheaper alternative arena scheme and says several operators are already interested.

The planned redevelopment of Temple Meads station has been included in the scheme and the idea is to completely refurbish the historic building. A new platform is planned in Brunel's original Passenger Shed for the service linking Bristol to London and the aim is to shift the main entrance of the building to where the long-stay car park now stands, creating a passenger hub to connect rail and bus services. Once electrification of the Great Western line is completed, high speed trains will run to London every 15 minutes.

The Paintworks project in Brislington is also part of the Enterprise Zone, along with a strip of land for creative companies, dubbed the "media mile".

The final strand of the project is the redevelopment of the St Philip's area to make it more attractive to businesses.

Colin Skellett, pictured, the chairman of the LEP, said: "What we want is to have a rail connection which will mean people will be able to travel to Paris in four hours.

"We want a modern and efficient transport system which will see people arriving into Bristol right into the heart of a vibrant business, commercial and leisure district to rival any city in the world.

"There is no other major city in the UK that does not have an arena and we want to address that situation."

He described the BBC as a "cornerstone of the Enterprise Zone".

City Council Leader Barbara Janke said: "Bristol has a huge amount to offer potential businesses wishing to invest. With its simplified planning and business rate discounts, the Enterprise Zone offers an exciting investment opportunity at the heart of the city and the South West region."

The Homes and Communities Agency, which owns three pieces of land around the station, has spent ^5 million on Brunel's Old Station and the derelict Pest Control Depot in Cattle Market Road.

Part of the listed Old Station building will be used as a conference venue and a centre for new businesses.

Organisations which have agreed to lend their help and expertise to the scheme include the major banks, stockbroker Hargreaves Lansdown and Bristol University. The University of the West of England, IBM, the Watershed and media umbrella group Bristol Media are also involved.

Refurbishment work has also started on Collett House next to the station and talks are taking place with the owners of the of derelict Royal Mail sorting office with the aim of turning the building into a brand new office block.

A spokeswoman for the BBC said: "At the moment we are looking at potential sites for re-location within the city, including the newly created Enterprise Zone, and have not ruled anything out."

All looks really positive, but why not abandon Temple Meads and build a modern station near Dr Day's Junction?

I suspect that there is sufficient capacity both at Temple Meads and within the greater Bristol area that additional land probably isn't required.

Platform 1 extended into the old shed, and a new platform 0, re-open Platform 2, and there is also options I'm sure to remodel around 15.

Once Filton bank is 4 tracked there's scope for Lawrence Hill improvements as a better interchange from the east if rhubarb curve is utilised.

Although I don't use it there must be options for improvements at Bedminster to serve inbound from the west.

Temple Meads is already a long way from the City Centre. Why would you want to move it any further away?

Yes there are plenty of bay platforms, and the new London services can use those that will be restored in the old train shed, but the Bristol Metro proposals call for more through platforms.

Forgive me but I cannot think of a City other than London where the main railway station is 2 miles out of [Bristol] city centre.

Bristol Temple Meads is the main railway station, situated approximately 15 minutes' walk from the City Centre.

Do Bristolians really walk that quickly?

And those that didn't want to walk could look for a closer station on the Bristol Metro services.

Do Bristolians really walk that quickly?

I cannot think of a City other than London where the main railway station is 2 miles out of the city centre. 

It must be borne in mind that the station must be by the railway   !!!

^100 million promised for Temple Meads revamp

A Government minister has announced that ^100 million is to be spent on bringing Bristol's Temple Meads station into the modern age ^ with more cash on the way.

The money will be divided between upgrading the station and opening up two unused platforms for the new electrified trains which will operate between Bristol and London.

(http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/images/localpeople/ugc-images/275775/Article/images/17309131/4303698.jpg)
Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin at Temple Meads station

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin came to Bristol for the cabinet meeting and met bosses from First Great Western and Network Rail at the station.

As well as revealing that ^100 million will be spent on Brunel's Victorian masterpiece the minister added that he is looking forward to working with the city's first elected mayor.

During the visit it emerged that Network Rail, which operates the station, has put ^100 million to one side to pay for a major revamp of the historic building. And more money is also expected to be spent on creating a new entrance at the side of the building and turning the current approach into a public square.

Mr McLoughlin said: "This is a fantastic facility and a fantastic station and there has been a big increase in demand for rail travel in recent years. It is fantastic that such a great city as Bristol is going to get a great service to match its aspirations."

From the Bristol Post (http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/pound-100-million-promised-Temple-Meads-revamp/story-17309131-detail/story.html):

Giant plant appears at Temple Mead station

Passengers arriving at Temple Meads Station were greeted by what appeared to be a bizarre sight - a giant plant growing out of the ground.

The inflatable was part of an art project designed to attract people and businesses to the new Enterprise Zone around the station.

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Giant plant appears at Temple Meads

Two new artworks by Bristol based Filthy Luker and Inky were unveiled yesterday as part of the new campaign.

The installations are part of the BTQ Commissions project and aim to provide a better welcome to the city at Temple Meads and raise awareness over the new Enterprise Zone.

A competition was also launched at the station by Bristol Festival of Ideas director Andrew Kelly to help visitors learn about the area and guide them on their way.

Proposals include short films, posters, cartoons, short stories, street art or drama performances. The Creative Gateway competition will give ten awards of ^500 for project proposals to be developed.

Bristol City Council has bought an office block near Temple Meads railway station for ^18 million as part of a massive overhaul of council offices.

But what should it be called?

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100 Temple Street

The former London Life headquarters are uninspiringly known as 100 Temple Street. But the office block is capable of eventually housing 2,000 staff who are currently based in a varied collection of 35 buildings throughout the city. The long-term aim is to bring all the admin staff together mostly into 100 Temple Street and City Hall in College Green which will undergo a refurbishment of nearly ^8 million.

We are asking readers to suggest a new name for the office block which befits its new high-profile role.

Bristol mayor George Ferguson said: ^It makes complete sense for the council to vastly reduce the number of offices it currently owns or leases across the city and consolidate into a few core offices. The location of 100 Temple Street is very strategic next to Temple meads and the planned Metrobus interchange, as well as being right at the heart of our ambitious plans for Redcliffe and the whole Enterprise Zone area.^

He said they looked at various other offices in the city which the council could have bought - some of which could have been cheaper - but this office block trumped the others, mostly due to its location near Temple Meads. In the years to come, Mr Ferguson sees council staff travelling to work on the metro system to Temple Meads and walking a few hundred yards to their office.

The council could also not have bought a better time due to the recession which has seen the bottom fall out of the commercial property market. It is understood that the purchase price was less than half what the owners, Aviva Investors Property Trust, paid for the office block at the height of the boom in 2005.

The purchase also rules out converting an empty bonded warehouse in the Cumberland Basin which was suggested last year. Mr Ferguson said: ^We looked carefully at A Bond but it was not right for this move. It would have been more expensive, would have provided less functional workspace and was in an inappropriate location. However, there remains a great opportunity for A Bond to be developed in partnership as a residential or mixed use development as part of a wider regeneration of Cumberland Basin.^

The refurb of City Hall will take about six to nine months and although all the staff will be moved out during the process, it will still be used for council meetings and events. Although it is a Grade II* listed building, City Hall is woefully inadequate as council offices in the 21st century. The makeover will see the removal of partitioning to create open space offices, new cabling to accommodate upgraded software, a new customer service point to replace Phoenix Court in New Bond Street and even a cafe and meeting rooms for clubs and groups.

^I really want to see City Hall used in the same way as in many European cities so it becomes a market place for people to meet,^ Mr Ferguson said. The overhaul of council offices will cost a whopping ^70 million in outlay - but council officers have conservatively estimated that savings on running costs will give a net ^profit^ during the next 25 years of ^40 million.

Mr Ferguson said Bristol was playing ^catch up^ with other councils such as Birmingham, Wiltshire and Swindon which had already started the process of rationalising its office space. He said: ^This is not about providing comfort or luxury for council staff - it^s about running services as efficiently as we possibly can in good working conditions.^

The council currently uses 53,000 sq metres of office space in the city which will be reduced to 32,000 sq metres although Mr Ferguson is asking for even more savings.

Council staff are expected to move into 100 Temple Street from the beginning of next year which will open the way for City Hall to be refurbished. It will also mean that some council buildings will be available for other possible uses - including new primary schools.

The office shake up which has been worked on by a team of officers for the past few years due to its complexity, is being paid for with prudential borrowing - low-cost loans from the Government which are only available to local authorities.

The purchase of 100 Temple Street has already been welcomed by business leaders and property experts in the city.

Ned Cussen, on behalf of the Bristol Property Agents Association, said: ^This is good news for all of Bristol and I commend the initiative from the council. It will enable the council to deliver more efficient services in a first class building. It is also a great location for both staff and visitors. 100 Temple Street is a quality building and the deal represents good value for money. Whichever way you look at it, this a major property deal for Bristol and gives a great lift to the local economy.

"More so, it uses vacant space and gives a great boost to the Enterprise Zone at Temple Meads. The zone will be one of the major focuses for economic activity in the Greater Bristol area in the next decade. This deal makes far more sense than trying to convert the red brick Tobacco Bond at Cumberland Basin to offices.^

Colin Skellett, chairman of Wessex Water and the Local Enterprise Partnership, said: ^This is great news for Bristol and makes eminent strategic sense in terms of its location alongside the Enterprise Zone with its great regional transport links. It is encouraging to see the mayor driving these efficiency measures through in the intests of more effective and economic governance.^

Phil Smith, MD of Business West, said: ^We applaud George for taking decisive action to implement more efficient and effective ways of accommodating council staff. Whilst this may seem obvious and a rleatively minor decision, it will actually provide some important benefits. More staff housed in fewer offices and less space will save the council money at a time when budgets are particularly tight - a saving of around ^40 million over 25 years is a significant amount that can now be used to help create jobs and improve the environment of the city.

^The idea of relocating council staff close to Temple Meads and the Enterprise Zone shows the mayor^s commitment to further regenerating this area and creating a focus for activity and enterprise, hopefully this will encourage others to do the same.^

I am afraid the Luftwaffe 'knocked it about a bit'. 

Went through Temple Meads today.

On the way in I was reminded that an extra couple of metres on the South side of P15 would make a P16 possible in the future.

Then I looked at the space and tracks between P3/5 and thought wouldn't it be much more satisfactory to use that space - under the roof - for passengers and have the through roads on the south side.

...Bristol is too far down a very long list for investment like that.

Having up freight traffic cross the throat to access the Up Filton would seriously limit capacity as well.

If you will indulge this flight of fancy a little further, it strikes me that it would be fantastic to have a glass wall between the Brunel part of the Old Station (the bit where they hold the Beer Festival) and the extension. This would allow passengers could see the old hammerbeam roof from the new platforms, and conference-goers could see out into the station.

I accept that it is not going to get a Reading-style track expansion (is it a bottleneck?), but I think it is reasonable to expect that they do a decent job on the building.

I would like to think a bay platform 2 could be reopened for Portishead services at the same time.

Isn't the idea to have through services to destinations north of Temple Meads? That would be much more useful than spending money reinstating a bay and forcing people to change. And more productive in terms of rolling stock use.

Edited to fix quotes - bobm

Having up freight traffic cross the throat to access the Up Filton would seriously limit capacity as well.

There is in theory a bypass route, although whether it would solve problems of capacity or add to them I know not.

Freight from west of Temple Meads heading north, and vice versa, could go via Bristol West Junction, past St Phillips Marsh TMD, North Somerset Junction, the rhubarb curve, Dr Day's Junction and onto the Up Filton.

Whilst this avoids Temple Meads itself there would still be the problem of threading freight services across the various junctions between passenger services.

There is in theory a bypass route, although whether it would solve problems of capacity or add to them I know not.

Freight from west of Temple Meads heading north, and vice versa, could go via Bristol West Junction, past St Phillips Marsh TMD, North Somerset Junction, the rhubarb curve, Dr Day's Junction and onto the Up Filton.

Whilst this avoids Temple Meads itself there would still be the problem of threading freight services across the various junctions between passenger services.

Transformation of Engine Shed into enterprise hub gets underway

Press release issued 28 May 2013

Work to transform Brunel^s terminal for the Great Western Railway into a 21st century launch pad for a new generation of businesses is underway.

Rydon Construction has been appointed in a deal between Bristol City Council and the University of Bristol to refurbish Brunel^s Grade 1 Listed Engine Shed into a business and innovation centre for fast-growing technology firms.

(http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/Boyamijealous_7108a707/shedload_zpsc5bb7f57.jpeg)

The building will be transformed from its previous use, as the former home of the Empire and Commonwealth Museum, into a permanent base for 20 companies and will provide the resources and facilities for a further 40, including a business lounge at the centre of the building.

It will be managed by Bristol SETsquared Centre ^ the University^s double award-winning business incubator - who will take the majority of the space to provide premium serviced offices for its early-stage technology businesses.

Nick Sturge, Director of the Bristol SETsquared Centre which is currently based at University Gate East in Clifton, said: ^This is such an exciting project, both for the University^s SETsquared Centre but also for the Bristol and Bath city region, and we are delighted that work is now underway to deliver the iconic space that we have planned for.^

The project is funded principally by Bristol City Council and the University of Bristol, together with central government funding via City Deal. A total of ^1.5 million is being invested to breathe new life into the Engine Shed.

Paul Barber, South West Regional Director of Rydon Construction, said: "We welcome the challenge to work on this unique building and play our role, as a locally based contractor, in presenting Bristol as a focal point for UK business and innovation.

^Drawing on our experience on complex projects in this region, Rydon will work closely with SETsquared, the University of Bristol and the Council to ensure we manage the build considerately and respectfully so this Grade 1 Listed structure is preserved as it begins its new life.^

The building will also house the new West of England^s shared inward investment service Invest in Bristol and Bath.

Work to the Brunel building forms part of the Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone, a 70-hectare regeneration programme centred around Temple Meads railway station, to create a new, superbly connected entry to Bristol and a hub for creative, high technology, specialist engineering and low carbon companies in the centre of Bristol. Over the next 25 years, the Enterprise Zone aims to attract more than 400 firms and create over 17,000 new jobs.

A new ^100m vision for Bristol's Temple Meads

A VISION of how Brunel^s historic Temple Meads Station could look in the future has been unveiled.

Network Rail, the landlords of the historic building, are planning a radical ^100 million revamp of the Victorian structure as part of work to regenerate the area around the station.

(http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/images/localworld/ugc-images/276268/Article/images/19482490/5024363.jpg)​
The new plan for Temple Meads

The improvements will be the biggest overhaul seen at the station for more than 140 years ^ and could even include the removal of the existing ramp leading up to the station.

The plans are still in a very early stage and discussions are due to take place with key organisations such as English Heritage but the outlines of the scheme are starting to emerge.

 
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The aim is to complete all the work by the end of 2019, two years after the electrification of the London to Bristol rail line has been completed.

Details emerged at a conference held in Brunel^s Passenger Shed yesterdayTHU.

Delegates were shown proposals which would include the creation of a new entrance at the side of the station building, a subway and a new glass front.

The early drawings also show plans for a new pedestrian square at the front of the station, which would replace the existing concourse.

Around 300 delegates at the conference looking at the progress being made in the Enterprise Zone were given a sneak preview of the station plans.

There were also updates on the work being done to bring a 12,000 seater stadium to Bristol. The audience was told negotiations with an operator were well under way. Work on improving on access to the land earmarked for the arena is due to start within a matter of months.

Mike Gallop, from Network Rail, is part of the team drawing up plans to transform Temple Meads.

He said: ^Temple Meads set the template for modern commercial stations across the world. It was built as a driver for trade and commerce and that blueprint is what we are trying to recreate today.

^We want to link Bristol to London and the rest of the country and, at the same time, we will be recreating the engine of trade and commerce.

^There is a case for Bristol Temple Meads to be redeveloped to meet future passenger demand and to unlock the potential of the land asset around it, so that it supports the aspirations of Bristol Enterprise Zone and city council.

^However, the task to do so will be enormous. There are the considerations of building on a live railway, meeting the government^s efficiencies target and overcoming constraints posed by a heritage structure.^

Paul Wilson, below, the chief executive of the Local Enterprise Partnership, is overseeing the Enterprise Zone and the work being done in the area.

He revealed that negotiations are ^very much^ in progress to bring in an operator to run the long-awaited indoor arena, in the hope that the 12,000-seater venue opens within four years^ time.

The plans will also include a new passenger interchange at the side of the station, which would connect Temple Meads to the rest of the city^s public transport network.

A spokesman for the enterprise zone said: ^The station approach ramp is extremely congested, with conflicting vehicle movements, which Network Rail and Bristol City Council are hoping to improve.

^A successful passenger transport interchange will provide a seamless end-to-end journey between all modes of transport, including cycling and walking.^

George Ferguson has already pledged that an arena will be built before his term as Bristol^s first elected mayor comes to an end.

A feasibility study has been carried out for an arena on the former diesel depot site near the station.

The study found that there is support and demand for an arena, along with interest from leading operators in the entertainment sector.

Can we hope that when the wires come in and the mail conveyor is removed, they put aside a few quid to keep the roof clean and the gutters swept?

^6 million windfall signals the end for Bristol's eyesore GPO building

BRISTOL'S worst eyesore is finally set to be knocked down, thanks to a ^6 million windfall from the Government to buy the site from an investment firm. The former Royal Mail sorting office has blighted the view of passengers arriving in Bristol at Temple Meads station since it closed down in 1997.

The Bristol Post understands a deal to buy it is "very close", thanks to funding announced yesterday by Communities Minister Stephen Williams.

Read more at http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/EXCLUSIVE-pound-6m-windfall-signals-end-Bristol-s/story-21156873-detail/story.html#T1h7szjOuyIB3oyo.99

Minister unlocks Bristol^s Arena site to major development

Work to unlock a development site which has been earmarked for Bristol^s ambitious Arena project is about to start in earnest.

Communities Minister and Bristol West MP Stephen Williams joined partners at the Diesel Depot site beside Temple Meads station today to mark the start of infrastructure work which will unlock the site for major development.

The ^11.5m project commissioned by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) will see a new two lane bridge installed over the River Avon to improve links with the station and the rest of the city. Work is also underway to enhance the bridge by creating a green corridor using trees and other climbing plants across its structure and along pedestrian routes.

More details: http://www.bristoltemplequarter.com/news/news/2014/05/29/minister-unlocks-bristol%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98arena-site%E2%80%99-to-major-development/

Hmm...   I reckon that should take about ten seconds to decide.

Paul

The canopies along the platforms appear to have been cut back to accommodate the Conveyor bridge. Given the overall benefits of the current proposals, we do not object the cladding of the severed ends of the canopies with traditional dagger-boards; however, in the longer term consideration might be given to reinstating the missing elements of the canopies.

Excellent news!

Should make London end photography more aesthetically pleasing. Hoping there's a gap between conveyor removal and knitting going up.

Spotted something interesting (well, I think it is!) in this document 'Growing Bristol^s Railway' (undated, unfortunately), by Chris Aldridge, Principal Strategic Planner at Network Rail Western: http://www.travelwest.info/sites/default/files/Network%20Rail%20process.pdf

I saw heavy plant on the site yesterday.

This poster gives a nice 'before and after' (sorry for the jaunty angle but it was that or have a big flash reflection in the middle of it!).

As an aside, you'd never know that floor was wet without that trip hazard cone there would you?  ::)

I was at Temple Meads this evening I caught the 17:13 to Avonmouth just as we were pulling out a steam engine came in on the middle road I did not see what it was it might have been a battle of Britain class southen loco
Can anyone shed some light on this for me ?.

Railway Touring Club
  THE BATH AND BRISTOL CHRISTMAS MARKET 
Thursday 27 November 2014
LMS Class 5MT 4-6-0 no 45407
SR Light Pacific 4-6-2 no 34067 Tangmere

Timings here (http://www.uksteam.info/tours/t14/t1127b.htm).

I saw the Black 5 trundling over the girder bridge by the Dogs' Home.  Surprising how this kind of thing barely causes a raised eyebrow these days; twenty years ago it would have been on the front page of the Evening Post.

Why on earth did they paint it such a vile colour, by the way? The bridge that is, not the Black 5; black is a perfectly respectable colour for an engine, especially a Black 5, though I do feel it should have yellow (or, better, hi-viz orange) ends.

Thanks for the heads up - I have set my BT box to record the 2100 report. I have a DVD recorder, and if it's a good piece, I might be able to do a rather tortuous link up, followed by a rip to Youtube or similar, and post here.

Was the report about the conveyor bridge in "The 9"? I set my Sky box to record "The 6" programme, and for some technical reason, the second part of the program went AWOL and wasn't shown so no idea if it featured.

I saw the Black 5 trundling over the girder bridge by the Dogs' Home. 

...loose concrete slabs...

I can confirm that it is a right of way. It was closed during the refurbishment, but has just reopened.

This view (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4450476,-2.5775081,19z) shows the route, and how it connects the Bath Road with  Concorde Way, as they now call that stretch of the River Avon towpath.

Edited to add Google Maps link

In a currently disused building on the station at Avonmouth (http://www.firstgreatwestern.info/coffeeshop/index.php?topic=14912.0), for example ... ?  :P ::)

I assume the inclusion of possibly one of the litter was intended to provide a scale in those images?  ;)

Well, it's vanishing quickly now. Seen people still working on it after 8pm last Wednesday sort of explains why. They even seemed to be working after a quick homeward aperitif in Bonapartes before the 20.34 "Severn Riviera Express" to Redland. Not being an expert here but how long to they work till?

Well, it's vanishing quickly now. Seen people still working on it after 8pm last Wednesday sort of explains why. They even seemed to be working after a quick homeward aperitif in Bonapartes before the 20.34 "Severn Riviera Express" to Redland. Not being an expert here but how long to they work till?

That is shocking to hear that rail operatives are working after imbibing alcohol at Bonapartes. I would never do that, never in a million years.

I would go to the Knights Templar, where beer is much cheaper. They are paying these guys too much. No wonder it costs so much to get the train to Severn Beach.

Work begins over Christmas to create new route to the West
(http://news.images.itv.com/image/file/552552/stream_img.jpg)
Disused royal mail conveyor will be removed from Bristol Temple Meads station on Christmas day Credit: ITV West Country

Work will begin at Bristol Temple Meads station tonight to remove the disused mail conveyor.

It will begin the process of the electrification of the main line to the South West - which is expected to be finished by 2017. The work to remove the old Royal Mail conveyor will be finished while the station is closed on Christmas day.
Last updated Sat 20 Dec 2014

Conveyor removed for work on wires
(http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/images/localworld/ugc-images/276268/Article/images/25753748/9234813-large.jpg)

THE Royal Mail conveyor is being dismantled at Temple Meads station.

The conveyor was used to pass mail between the station and the Royal Mail's former sorting office next door, now derelict.

The conveyor needs to be removed to make way for the overhead electric wires on the Great Western main line.

A Network Rail spokeswoman said: "This removal is essential to make room for the overhead electric wires, paving the way for the arrival of longer, faster, quieter and greener electric trains by 2017."

An army of some 2,500 engineers will be spending their Christmas Day, and the days that follow, working on the Western route ^ which connects London with the Thames Valley, the west and south west of England ^ to deliver improvements, including increased capacity and reduced journey times.

Patrick Hallgate, Network Rail's managing director for the Western route, said: "Making the railway better is what we aim to do every day and our nationwide investment programme this Christmas, the biggest yet, is fully focussed on delivering a better service for passengers."

Most of the work will have little impact on passengers, with much of it to be completed before services resume on Saturday.

There are pictures of the conveyor being built in the planning application for demolition, but even they only give 'circa' 1970, and early 70s in the various descriptions/captions.

Surprising that the planners don't have an exact date.

http://planningonline.bristol.gov.uk/online-applications/files/517842BF5DDC29F59D19046D3BE5A255/pdf/14_03806_LA-SUPPORTING_STATEMENT_-_JULY_2014-1168226.pdf

If link goes stale it is the detailed statement within application 14/03806

Paul

How spooky. I asked the contractors the exact same thing this morning!

Got the same answer as you WP.  ;D

I was at the Meads this morning there were a couple of Network Rail guys giving the building on Platform 11 a good coat of looking at .

Not been to TM for a while. Has anyone noticed if the brick footings of the removed conveyor bridge are being demolished yet?

No, but the brick buildings all had a wooden canopy around them and when I passed through this morning I saw that some of those have been removed and some are being removed.  I assume that the brick will be next once that is completed.  It looks like the demolition hasn't stopped but rather is progressing slowly, presumably due to proximity of running lines.

The brick footing from platforms 1/3 has also now gone. Picture from 3rd April 2015:

(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt68/bignosemac/DSC_0095_zpsrimfua7w.jpg)

Looking down the lift shaft hole where the subway linking the conveyor footings can be seen.

I know not whether the subway under the former mail conveyor is being permanently filled in or whether the holes are just being capped. Would seem short sighted to block it off for ever.

Well we've got the knitting coming, the closure and removal of Bristol Panel, and the reopening to passenger trains of the Digby-Wyatt extension to the original trainshead.

Passenger facilities are where major improvements are needed. As far as I'm aware, nothing has been confirmed for improving the ticket buying facilities, improving passenger flow (P3 to subway to in particular), increasing retail outlets, a better interchange for buses, taxis and private cars, and so on.

Noting Mr Red Squirrel's musical taste, perhaps 'Close to the Edge' is rather appropriate?

Just been on Network Rail's website for the GWR electrification in the Bath area and seen the "artists impression" of the new bridge replacing the Georgian one at Sydney Gardens..... bit of a shocker! Did Bath City council and the planning permission people know what is being proposed in a World Heritage site?

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. 

Just been on Network Rail's website for the GWR electrification in the Bath area and seen the "artists impression" of the new bridge replacing the Georgian one at Sydney Gardens..... bit of a shocker! Did Bath City council and the planning permission people know what is being proposed in a World Heritage site?

I assumed that the old bridges were being kept.  I thought that was why the line was closing for several weeks this summer, to allow the track bed to be dug out and lowered rather than demolishing the bridges

The picture on the above link indeed shows the existing bridge but it's the first of 2 pictures, you can "slide show" it with the arrow below the picture to show the "Sydney Gardens draft visualisation".

I'm informed that the present signal box building currently blocking the access to the proposed new platforms in the old Digby Wyatt shed at TM is to be relocated (at Didcot I believe) as part of the GWR electrification.  Thing is, even with the publicised delays in electrification getting to TM, surely time is running out to get this started. Does anyone know if or when we'll see some sign of movement there? I'm not a civil engineer but I can see there's a bit of work to do there.

I'm here....... :D

 The existing 'X' signs that divide the platforms into two parts at Temple Meads station will in future be divided by proper 'back to back' signals.

So someone has recognised that  the markers at Reading are not much good and you need proper signals.

the equipment in the Cogload Junction to Flax Bourton (125mp) area which will not be changed as it is outside of the electrified area.

Did I read that right? A 125mph section which is not included in the scope of the electrification project?

The route has a line speed limit of 100 miles per hour (160 km/h) with local variations; trains from Bristol to Taunton are described as travelling in the 'down' direction. It is constructed to Route Availability 8 and freight loading gauge W8. It has Multiple Aspect Signals (MAS) and Track Circuit Block (TCB) controlled from the panel signal box at Bristol. A local signal box at Puxton and Worle controls the two level crossings at Hewish and Puxton, and an emergency panel at Weston-super-Mare can take control of the section from Hewish to Uphill Junction if required.

The "markers" you describe at Reading are completely different, merely a car stop marker, guiding where to stop a train returning out of the station the same way and are nothing to do with the signalling.

The 'X' signs at Bristol Temple Meads are classed as signals and may only be passed with the appropriate authority - either a platform number on the indicators outside the station which is beyond the 'X' or permission from the signaller.

Did I read that right? A 125mph section which is not included in the scope of the electrification project?

I think the point is that the X boards at Reading SHOULD be replaced by proper signals. They are not just a guide or car stop marker - they are mandatory stop positions at the end of their own separate track sections and I think I^m right in saying a train that wrongly passes an X board is treated as a SPAD. 

I see no difference between the Bristol and Reading situations.  As I understand it the X boards at Reading, to quote your words, ^may only be passed with the appropriate authority - either a platform number on the indicators outside the station which is beyond the 'X' or permission from the signaller^.  So just like Bristol.

So why does Bristol get signals and Reading not?

Its 125 mile post from London (which is near the site of the closed Flax Bourton station).  I have edited my original post to clarify it.

I'll add my thanks for all that interesting information.  Off course there will also be implications for the current side entrance to Temple Meads once the track goes down over what is now part of the public access, short to middle term at least.

NR have submitted plans to replace the lighting inside BRI ( see http://planningonline.bristol.gov.uk/online-applications/search.do?action=simple&searchType=Application, and search for 15/02789/LA ). My observations, for what they're worth:

1. Either of my 9-year-olds could have done better drawings of the light fittings;
2. Any hope that BRI is to be refurbished to a standard befitting its historic significance is starting to evaporate - from their aesthetics, one might be forgiven for wondering if NR bought the lights cheaply after German reunification made the border floodlights surplus to requirements.

NR have submitted plans to replace the lighting inside BRI ( see http://planningonline.bristol.gov.uk/online-applications/search.do?action=simple&searchType=Application, and search for 15/02789/LA ). My observations, for what they're worth:

1. Either of my 9-year-olds could have done better drawings of the light fittings;
2. Any hope that BRI is to be refurbished to a standard befitting its historic significance is starting to evaporate - from their aesthetics, one might be forgiven for wondering if NR bought the lights cheaply after German reunification made the border floodlights surplus to requirements.

I don't think we can expect the return of atmospheric gas lighting

I disagree. In fact I could not disagree more.
1. The drawing that is a sketch is perfectly serviceable.  Why does it need to be anything more than that for this purpose?
2. a) You do not see the lights at that height - you see the effect of the lighting.  As an example of good use of modern LED lighting in a listed
        building I would suggest you look at Tewkesbury Abbey.  The fittings are not hidden, but they are hardly visible. If LEDs can be made to work in a
        medieval grade 1 listed abbey, Temple Meads should be a doddle!
    b) From my (limited) experience of lighting schemes in listed buildings I am encouraged.  Particularly the use of uplighters to light the architectural
        features of the roof.  In my experience this removes the feeling that you have a hanging darkness above you.

It's true that the drawings don't need to be much cop if the scheme is a fait accompli and their only purpose is to tell people where to put the lights and ensure they don't fall on anyone. But it's also true that they don't really give much of an impression of how the lights will actually look, beyond 'basic'.

A key difference between Temple Meads and Tewkesbury Abbey is that Temple Meads had a lighting scheme when built, and we know what it looked like because we have photos. I think that something like the original pendants, coupled with modern discrete LED uplighters, would better reflect the building's heritage than simply leaving out a key part of it's original look. I'm not trying to reverse history; I just think it's a shame to lose an opportunity to enhance Temple Meads which, like Tewkesbury Abbey, is Grade 1 listed.

Do you really want authenticity or a good lighting scheme that really shows off the architecture of the grade 1 listed interior?

That's a false dichotomy: we could have both; prominent period-style pendants coupled with discrete LED uplighters.

This should be made a 'listed, protected vista'

Great-great-great grandson of Isambard Kingdom Brunel set to visit Bristol Temple Meads in honour

The great-great-great grandson of Isambard Kingdom Brunel will tomorrow follow in his footsteps by visiting the iconic train station he designed as part of a project to honour him.

The famed railway engineer designed Bristol's Temple Meads station and his descendant Isambard Thomas, 51, will be returning to the landmark tomorrow.

The graphic artist has been commissioned to create a print of the Bristol to Paddington line - one of his relative's greatest achievements.

Workaholic Brunel engineered the line by walking for miles and miles to expertly plan the route on the flattest land for the Great Western Railway.

Now First Great Western, who run trains on the route, is taking on the company's name, and as part of the re-branding have asked Isambard junior to create a modern print.

Isambard said: "It is a great honour to work on a project which was so close to my great, great, great grandfather's heart. I have prints from the time which show how stations and the line used to look and I can compare them with how they look now.

"I have recently visited the Box Hill tunnel, which was a remarkable feature at the time. To build it they had to build 14 shafts down through a hill. All the earth was taken out through the shafts. The brickwork in those shafts is still beautiful and the tunnel is still in good condition, a testament to the work carried out at the time."

The re-branding by First Great Western is part of a massive investment in stations, trains and infrastructure to restore the route to its former glory.

It will be renamed the Great Western Railway, the name of the company which employed Isambard, on September 20.

Slightly peripheral to this topic, but there's a YouTube vid of the Arena Island (why do they call it that?) bridge being slid into place here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSnn2_Dwk2A

...Arena Island (why do they call it that?)...

Because it's going to have an Arenal on it. D'uh!

I thought an archipelago was something cricketers went to sea on, only a more important version.

I of course got my geographical term wrong. I meant a peninsula.

These were invented by Sir Alexander Fleming I believe.

Well thank goodness we got that sorted out. Easter Island it is then, and look! There's Ursula Andress, emerging from the foam.

I thought an archipelago was something cricketers went to sea on, only a more important version.

I'm just looking !.

Businesses seek cash for Bristol Temple Meads station overhaul

(http://ichef-1.bbci.co.uk/news/660/cpsprodpb/9B15/production/_85810793_dsc_0034.jpg)
Bristol Temple Meads is "out of date" and "inadequate", according to business leaders

Business leaders in the West are making a pitch for more government money to revamp Bristol's Temple Meads station.

They say it needs a ^295m revamp - but only ^80m has been earmarked by Network Rail, which is not yet guaranteed.

While Birmingham's New Street has had a ^750m facelift, Temple Meads is "out of date" and "inadequate", they say.

The government has not committed to extra funding but says it is working with Bristol on its enterprise zone and metro rail project.

The West of England Local Enterprise Partnership and Bristol City Council say Brunel's iconic Temple Meads is one of the last city centre mainline railway stations not to meet 21st Century standards.

They argue the region generates more money for the Treasury than anywhere else in England - outside London - yet while rail electrification brings faster journeys, the station itself will be out of date.

The West of England Local Enterprise Partnership said: "Temple Meads is in desperate need of major redevelopment, with an extremely congested entrance and exit ramp, overcrowded passenger tunnel, insufficient car parking and lack of key facilities such as shops, bars and toilets.

"To transform the station will cost in the region of ^295m, and whilst Network Rail has so far committed ^80m for redevelopment as part of the electrification of the Great Western Mainline, this has not been fully confirmed."

The government said it was "committed to firing up local communities and backing businesses so they create thousands of jobs and greater prosperity".

"This includes a successful Enterprise Zone set around the station in Bristol, enabling the Local Enterprise Partnership and City Council to invest business rates in infrastructure and growth," a spokesman said.

"We are also working closely with the West of England Local Economic Partnership to help enable their plans for the Bristol Metro."

Less Canary Wharf, more Kings Cross

Derelict buildings and land around Temple Meads will be transformed into homes, offices and new squares under plans to create the "Kings Cross of Bristol".

The council has released new images as they launch their 25-year plan to change the area in what is considered to be the biggest regeneration project in the UK.

A consultation is now underway for a ^spatial framework^ - outlined in the new pictures and video fly-through - to follow when deciding on future planning permission for the area which stretches from Temple Gate to the Paintworks.

See full article in Bristol 24/7 (http://www.bristol247.com/channel/news-comment/features/video/video-flying-tour-through-enterprise-zone)

Devil's advocate...

What purpose will the spire serve other than aesthetic?

Money well spent?

Devil's advocate...

What purpose will the spire serve other than aesthetic?

Money well spent?

No problem with all the other aspirations.

As to the cost: How much does some 4x2 and a couple of pallets of chinese slates cost?

^800 for the slates (2 pallets would cover about 50 sq metres). ^400 for the timber. Labour about ^3000.

Found this YouTube vid (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsuOwJj_ERU) showing how the new bridge (connecting Cattle Market Rd to Arena Island The George Ferguson Memorial to Futility and Ambition Thwarted by Petty Politics) was constructed. Enjoy.

Or the obstructive elements can present it as a failure of the overambitious mayor's pet project and garner the votes.  ::)

Or the obstructive elements can present it as a failure of the overambitious mayor's pet project and garner the votes.  ::)

Tricky to work out who would stand to profit. All of the parties on the planning committee who delayed it (Labour, Conservative, LibDem and Green) have expressed a wish to see the Arenal built. They can;'t all take the credit. If that is the plan, it could backfire badly.

Couple of queries about the redevelopment

1 - are there any plans to built 2 additional platforms in the main part of the station, i.e. in between platforms 2/3 and 5/6, provided that both platforms 2/3 and 5/6 are reconfigured to fit a new platform island in the middle

2 - what are the plans for the ticket office and entrance to underneath the platforms

3 - when the shed has its 2 platforms reinstated, how is the far side platform going to be reached - subway/footbridge

4 - when is temple meads being resignalled?

5 - presumably when temple meads is resignalled, we will see a number of new signal posts, new track layouts and replacement of lots of track?

I thought wiring Wootton Basset-Bath-Bristol had been put back to CP6. Are you saying Filton bank wiring has been similarly designated?

No Filton bank is how Electric Trains will first reach Temple Meads

Unless I've missed it, there is no grand plan for redevelopment at this time.

New ticket machine trial at Bristol Temple Meads to end nightmare queues for commuters
By L_Churchill  |  Posted: July 04, 2016

New trials at Bristol Temple Meads could see the end of nightmare queues for commuters.

Network Rail said it is testing additional ticket barriers at the station as part of its upgrade plan.

The company hopes that the new system will see less queues during busy periods at the railway station.

Staff will be on hand next week to direct passengers to the new gate locations, which will operate between 7.30am and 9.30am and 4.30pm to 6.30pm on weekdays from Monday, July 11 for two weeks.

Network rail said it will be monitoring the use of the new barriers to gauge their effectiveness.

Drop in sessions will be taking place on platform three of the station on Friday, July 8 from 7.30am until 9.30am.

Network Rail's scheme sponsor, Lisa Evans, said: "We are always looking at ways to improve the passenger experience at our stations. Bristol Temple Meads is a major transport hub in the South West and can get quite congested during peak travel times.

"We hope by undertaking these trials, we can get a better insight into the passenger flow and can test out other gate line locations within the station, to see where improvement can be made both in the short and long term."

Trials of additional ticket barriers will take place at Bristol Temple Meads station in the coming weeks as part of Network Rail’s Railway Upgrade Plan, with the aim of easing passenger congestion during peak travel times.


Network Rail staff will be on hand to direct passengers to the new gate line locations, which will operate during the station’s busiest periods, 7.30-9.30am and 4.30-6.30pm, from Monday, July 11 to Friday, 15 July and Monday, 18 July to Friday, 22 July.

The usage and impact of these additional barriers will be monitored to gauge their effectiveness at easing passenger congestion and providing a smoother experience for station users.

Following the trials, further engagement activities are planned to assess passenger feedback before taking work forward.

To discuss the aim of these trials in further detail and to answer questions on future improvements for the station, Network Rail and GWR staff will be present at two drop-in events, which will be held at platform 3 on Monday, 4 July and Friday, 8 July from 7.30am to 9.30am.

Network Rail’s scheme sponsor, Lisa Evans, said: “We are always looking at ways to improve the passenger experience at our stations. Bristol Temple Meads is a major transport hub in the South West and can get quite congested during peak travel times.

“We hope by undertaking these trials, we can get a better insight into the passenger flow and can test out other gate line locations within the station, to see where improvement can be made both in the short and long term”.

The Queen Anne Gate on platform 4 would be my favoured option.

Hopefully they can encourage the current ticket barrier to be mainly used for people coming into the station and from the ticket hall, and to direct people leaving the station to use the Queen Anne Gate on platform 4. Would certainly help passenger flows up the stairs i.e. leavers on the left and the others coming in from the right. You could then successfully remodel the space outside Temple Meads to an extent i.e. new bus stops, drop offs, taxis etc

The Queen Anne Gate on platform 4 would be my favoured option.

Hopefully they can encourage the current ticket barrier to be mainly used for people coming into the station and from the ticket hall, and to direct people leaving the station to use the Queen Anne Gate on platform 4. Would certainly help passenger flows up the stairs i.e. leavers on the left and the others coming in from the right. You could then successfully remodel the space outside Temple Meads to an extent i.e. new bus stops, drop offs, taxis etc

Something that always seems to create a bottleneck is the entrance/ exit into the old passenger shed if they got rid of the sliding doors the old entrance would width would be fine

The area outside temple meads is chaos at the moment due to the building works going on, all foot and cycle traffic directed down a relatively narrow path directly outside loads of shops then either over a bridge one at a time or a bridge with a blind entrance.  Fantastic....

I was sad to see the loss of the "Yurt Lush" eatery before I had gotten around to sampling it.

It is still there just in a different location. Turn left on exiting and head down towards the front of the old engine shed, it's taken over a portion of the car park.

It is still there just in a different location. Turn left on exiting and head down towards the front of the old engine shed, it's taken over a portion of the car park.

Since this was posted on the board I have taken a look at temple meads station when tramping back and forth through there daily The design of the station looks like it can handle many more people than it appears. Those two gates left and right of the main central one aren't used and are gated? It seems obvious to open them up as thats what they are designed for? The left one is really wide and would be great as it bypasses the ticket hall. Great if you have tickets already. Be interested on Monday to see if this temporary entrance thing is done or not?

Also I think they need to alter the up and down on all of the platforms as it can be a bit crowded trying to get down some of the stairs using the correct side. Some people don't bother all the time when it is busy at peak hours and you can get to all the platforms anyway. Maybe make the south side stairs the up and the north side stairs the down, that way the south side are good if you are hurrying down to a platform such as number 8. The stairs are located nearer the odd numbers anyway.

Anything to add another 4+ gates to allow people to flow in|out and reduce blockages at the current set of gates

Anyone know what is going on with the ticket barriers at BTM? They have all been removed and manual checks are being done at the moment.

Are they adding more gates and possibly a permanent another entrance and exit?

That is my understanding although I am not sure about the timing

Is it WOE, Metro mayor or Whoah Metro, Mayor ? Given the track record in Bristol I think both are equally valid !

I must have a word with one of our Mayors.

Bar code readers for, er, rail tickets with bar codes or QR codes.

For print at home rail tickets (yes, there is such a thing) and for the tickets issued from the new hand held devices used on board trains. These replacements for Avantix, which issue tickets printed on
a paper roll rather than the traditional card stock, are slowly being introduced across the network.

Don't know if it's connected, but all five of the TVMs in the car park were hors de combat when I called in this morning ...

???

This?

(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt68/bignosemac/w_03_zpsjcusb8sm.jpg)

 ;D

???

???

This?

(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt68/bignosemac/w_03_zpsjcusb8sm.jpg)

 ;D

The new gateline at Temple Meads is now operational. They are able to read barcodes, smart cards and paper tickets.

Getting Bristol Temple Meads ready for new Intercity Express trains

In autumn 2017 new Intercity Express trains will start being cascaded into use, and Network Rail is now working to ensure that the new trains can access station platforms.

At Bristol Temple Meads this summer, Platforms 13 and 15 will be extended in preparation for the new class 800 Hitachi trains. These trains are longer than the existing High Speed trains and – at up to 260m in length – will require additional platform length to allow all passengers to disembark.

Network Rail are currently working on access arrangements, as well as ensuring this project fits alongside other work taking place at Temple Meads, such as signalling renewals and the installation of new lighting.

Listed building consent has been granted by Historic England.

To extend the platforms, the existing ramp must first be demolished. This demolition will be carried out overnight, between 11.00pm and 5.00am, to minimise disruption to passengers:

Monday 26 June to Friday 30 June
Monday 3 July to Friday 7 July
Platform extension works will also take place overnight, over a three week period. These will be between the hours of 10.00pm and 5.00am on weekends and 11.00pm and 5.00am on week day nights:

Sat 29 July to Mon 31 July
Mon 31 July to Fri 4 August
Sat 5 August to Mon 7 August
Mon 7 August to Fri 11 August
Sat 12 August to Mon 14 August
Mon 14 August to Fri 18 August
Sat 19 August to Mon 21 August
Network Rail is writing to local neighbours and businesses to let them know about these works and is also working closely with GWR to ensure there is minimal disruption to passengers.

While trains won’t be running from platforms 13 and 15 on the four Sundays between 30 July and 20 August, Network Rail is working with GWR to understand how trains can be re-platformed. Passengers are advised to check the departures boards at the station for updated platform information on arrival at Bristol Temple Meads.

For more information, or to discuss any concerns during these works, please contact the 24 hour helpline on 03457 11 41 41.

Source: Bristol Temple Quarter website (http://www.bristoltemplequarter.com/getting-bristol-temple-meads-ready-for-new-intercity-express-trains/)

Bristol panel box is still in the way any no plans AIUI to recontrol the bit south of Bristol to allow it to close.

Extending existing platforms suggests two issues to me. Firstly, it comes at a cost. Secondly, if it is a stop gap plan to accommodate the new longer trains, is it not added expense to getting it right first time by sorting out the Digby Wyatt shed for the new stock a tad earlier?

In respect of roueting Portishead workings into those platforms this would involve many more conflicting movements and reduce capacity, particularly if the services are linked with the Avonmouth line which would then involve crossing all lines through Bristol East Jn to get back into the right side for the branch. At a busy station like Temple Meads it's impossible to provide convenient cross platform opportunities for all passenger flows, and whose to say that Portishead to Bath and beyond will be a more significant flow than say to Filton Abbey Wood. (London and Reading passengers are just as likely to use the new fast services via Parkway anyway.)

Happened upon these computer visualisations (http://www.ahr-global.com/Temple-Meads-Regeneration) which show how the Old Station might look in some imagined future where the whole project doesn't get canned and Temple Meads isn't allowed to gently settle into the swamp on which it stands... we can dream!

On closer inspection, the old train shed roof remains but is that in full or only in part? Is the modern roof section (in the foreground of the first pic) replacing anything or is there nothing there right now? If there's no demolition involved for that new roof, it isn't too bad I suppose but that weird blunt-triangular-prisim structure inside the old train shed looks very out of place.

"That weird blunt-triangular-prisim structure inside the old train shed"

The new bit is to cover the bit where there is nothing now. 
 

gently settle into the swamp on which it stands...

At a guess those visualisations were done early on in the electrification project when it was planned that London trains would go into the old station (avoiding electrification of the curvy bit). Of course that required that resignalling would be complete so that the signal box could be removed and, ahem.

Brief call at Temple Meads followed by a reversal at the extra platform at Bedminster?

That's a practice that will occur when the class 800s start
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/P05043/2017/11/13/advanced

A charitable explanation would be that NR are working on a plan behind the scenes with the University (who are redeveloping the old Royal Mail building) and Bristol City Council...

A charitable explanation would be that NR are working on a plan behind the scenes with the University (who are redeveloping the old Royal Mail building) and Bristol City Council. I wouldn't hold my breath though. 

What are the platform allocation plans for the future?  Will the station cope with four tracks worth of services flooding in from the north? Where will the London trains coming down Filton Bank terminate with a signal box in the way? 

Brief call at Temple Meads followed by a reversal at the extra platform at Bedminster?

The uni have released what they want to replace the old sorting office with.

https://www.bristol247.com/news-and-features/news/first-glimpse-bristol-universitys-new-300m-campus/

Admittedly this isn't strictly the redevelopment of Temple Meads Station itself but this old eyesore is so associated with Temple Meads that I thought to include it here.

Well I suppose if the UOB development goes ahead Marvin can be handed a hammer, a nail and he can drive the nail into the coffin of the arenal, something he has wanted to do since the day he was elected.

Crikey, that looks like replacing a disgusting eyesore with another equivalent one..... :P

Crikey, that looks like replacing a disgusting eyesore with another equivalent one..... :P

Well I suppose if the UOB development goes ahead Marvin can be handed a hammer, a nail and he can drive the nail into the coffin of the arenal, something he has wanted to do since the day he was elected.

It's a different part of the site. It has no bearing on Marvin's evil plans.

I think we should avoid reading too much into the artist's impressions - I doubt the final scheme will look much like them; they're just there to give an idea of scale for outline planning purposes.

One could be forgiven for thinking the Arenal site would make a good car park. How else will students and dons be able to travel between there and Clifton?

...there will be a shuttle bus service from the new Campus to Clifton

If only you could get to Clifton by train from Temple Meads!

Some of them will work it out before graduation.

If only you could get to Clifton by train from Temple Meads!

But that would mean building a branch line from Clifton Down over 1/2 mile long.

Redouble the whole route from Narroways Junction to Holesmouth Junction and bring the Henbury Loop back into passenger use without further delays. Some hope.

Rather less than that distance from CFN to the Library on Tyndalls Park Road, which is generally considered the 'centre' of the UoB (maybe you were thinking of the Wills Memorial?). That quibble aside, I expect it'll also run a little more frequently than the Severn Riviera Express, though given 20 years for the GRIP process - and half a billion quid - it may be possible to redouble the branch up to Clifton Down and get a 15-minute service.

A more frequent running on the whole of the route might be achieved by only redoubling 1 or 2 of the stations, Sea Mills for example. This would give more passing loops. Problem is that this would need more rolling stock and points/signalling costs too.

(genuine question): If the Henbury loop was opened, would redoubling of the track on the Severn Beach line actually be needed? (obviously it might be desirable). Presumably a circular service could have enough passing places to run fairly frequently in both directions.

My mates reaction, he'll never plan to attend an important family function by rail again.

No 0.6 miles to the Library and 0.7 miles to the Wills Memorial.

The way GWR is going, we'll have hassle free entrances, with some rather less harrassed gateline staff, but no trains to catch or arrive on !

Totally agree. And we poor blinkin' passengers , sorry CUSTOMERS, are made to feel like a major major' inconvenience, disturbing their cosy little chats. I cannot count the times I have been blanked by the gateline staff at Temple Meads when wishing them a good time of day or thanking them for letting me through. Is there a special grade of bloody mindedness/ charmlessness that equates with being sent to the gateline at TM ? I just wonder if they are sent to Blackpool North for training.

My only thought is that all the gates face the opposite way to the stairs, so the approach is from platform 4. Seems bizarre unless it will only be used by cyclists.

Yeah...I can just see BNM sashaying down the catwalk in the seasonal haute couture  of headgear., the flat cap. He might even get a flirtatious wink from one of the gateline staff

I concur. I suspect some pedestrian flow modelling has been done.

So installation of the new gate line is going ahead up near the bike racks, with the exit direct onto the main approach.

My only thought is that all the gates face the opposite way to the stairs, so the approach is from platform 4. Seems bizarre unless it will only be used by cyclists.

I would happily have used it last night at about 17:30 even walking around the other side as the queue for the only barriers there at present was on the right down into the subway.  I used the other stairs and went round. 

Odd how they installed Orange dot matrix instead of white. They are white at Gloucesters new entrance so it must not be to so with matching?

That new screen outside platform is really great, need to do the rest, be much better.

Agreed, they look great at Stonehouse and Yate as well.

New ticket gates opening at Temple Meads

(https://i1.wp.com/www.bristoltemplequarter.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Bonapartes-progress-Sept-2018.jpg?fit=640%2C480&ssl=1)

On Monday 17 December, Bristol Temple Meads will celebrate the opening of 14 new ticket gates for passengers.

More people than ever are travelling through the station each day and this number is only set to grow. The new ticket gates will add capacity, helping make it quicker and easier for passengers to get in and out of the station at peak times.

The new ticket gates are placed either side of the existing gates to the station and will be operational on weekdays from 7.00am until 10.00am and 4.00pm until 7.00pm.

Passengers will be able to enter and exit the station directly from the Friary through new ticket gates at Bonapartes Bar (shown below, right of existing exit).

There are also new, exit-only ticket gates being opened at Queen Anne Gate that will take passengers out onto Station Approach next to the British Transport Police office (shown below, to left of existing exit).

(https://i2.wp.com/www.bristoltemplequarter.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/new-map-Dec-2018.png?fit=1447%2C926&ssl=1)
 
Source: Bristol Temple Quarter blog (https://www.bristoltemplequarter.com/new-ticket-gates-opening-at-temple-meads/)

I'm looking forward to using the new Bonaparte Gate. I'm catching the 18.12.  :D

I remember when the café was called the merchantman, why was the name changed.

What's happened to the side entrance to Bonapartes? Is there a fenced entrance to the door, similar to that opposite for access to the staff facilities.

If not then said door would have to be locked lest walking through Bonapartes bypasses the gateline.

What's happened to the side entrance to Bonapartes? Is there a fenced entrance to the door, similar to that opposite for access to the staff facilities.

If not then said door would have to be locked lest walking through Bonapartes bypasses the gateline.

Dunno.  And why was "The Reckless Engineer" renamed "The Sidings".   Does it relate to political correctness to encourage technical people to take care, or is it an indication that it's managers and accountants who run the railways these days with those with detailed knowledge of how to work things out on the side tracks?

Would I think be changed and made into a fire exit only.

The gate line by Bonapartes will be of less use once the Train shed is in use again as that will do away with a large pedestrian flow from what is now the side entrance,I would think.

True but WHEN !

New barriers in use this morning, interestingly the Queens Ann Gate one was exit only - I thought they were meant to be both ways?

New barriers in use this morning, interestingly the Queens Ann Gate one was exit only - I thought they were meant to be both ways?

Interesting this morning caught a Cross Country train into Temple Meads, 99% of the time will always come into Platform 3
This morning we stop on platform 4, (3 was empty) and there are many station staff already there directing people to the new exit at Queen Anne Gates.

Co-incidence, or a subtle push to show people where the new exit is?
And to get usage numbers moving?

Every silver lining has a cloud...

I tried telling Lisa that the station map of BRI on the NRE website has not been updated... first she showed me some other maps, then she thanked me for my feedback. Can anyone think of a more effective way of nudging them into updating it?

I tried telling Lisa that the station map of BRI on the NRE website has not been updated... first she showed me some other maps, then she thanked me for my feedback. Can anyone think of a more effective way of nudging them into updating it?

Bristol East Junction is the complex of railway lines to the east of Temple Meads station. This end of the station has eight platform tracks, two through lines and three sidings; at the far end of the junction the routes become two tracks towards Bath (the Great Western Main Line) and four tracks towards Bristol Parkway. There was a third route, the Midland Railway line to Gloucester, but this now only gives access to Barton Hill Traction and Rolling Stock Depot.

The Network Rail scope of works is as follows:

• remodel and rationalise within the existing geographical constraints
• recovery 57 point ends and replacing with 47 including Kingsland Road sidings
• replace the Bristol East Signal Gantry for electrical clearances
• junction lighting
• waterproof Avon Street bridge and replace decking
• install all overhead electrification (OLE) structures conventionally across the junction.

Network Rail states that the re-modelling will provide:

• operational flexibility (all lines can reach all platforms)
• increased line speed on the east side of the Gantry
• capacity requirements for the 2018 Intercity Express Programme (IEP) timetable and all capacity requirements up to year 2043.

Remodelling of the junction also provides the capacity and flexibility to incorporate the MetroWest timetable; it is vital for MetroWest Phase 2 and desirable for Phase 1.

There is currently no funding for this capacity improvement. However the National Audit Office’s recent report on electrification suggests that Bristol East Junction could usefully be funded and put in place now before the delayed electrification works resume. The Mayor, Marvin Rees, has written to the DfT to ask for Bristol East Junction as compensation for the delay in electrification; apparently the Department for Transport (DfT) are offering £10m from the savings of electrification for the development study for Bristol East Junction, but are not (at present) offering to pay for the engineering works themselves. The Mayor has said that he would welcome FOSBR support for this campaign. It is likely that FOSBR and other rail campaign groups will be asking DfT for FULL funding for these vital improvement works.

Although OHLE structures presumably won't be installed, you might be forgiven for hoping that any new work includes passive provision for them.

It would be really good to put the foundations in so that the new cabling is not damaged when they are put in.

According to FOSBR (http://fosbr.org.uk/ourcase) (Friends of Suburban Bristol Railways):


Although OHLE structures presumably won't be installed, you might be forgiven for hoping that any new work includes passive provision for them.

On a train in to work this morning two chaps in National Rail coats were talking, and I overheard them say something that I was wondering if someone on here would know the answer to?

At Easter 2021, "Bristol East" will be closed for six weeks for improvement works

I am curious as to where this "Bristol East" actually is and what it will affect?

The Network Rail scope of works is as follows:

• remodel and rationalise within the existing geographical constraints
• recovery 57 point ends and replacing with 47 including Kingsland Road sidings
• replace the Bristol East Signal Gantry for electrical clearances

• junction lighting

[/b]

• waterproof Avon Street bridge and replace decking
• install all overhead electrification (OLE) structures conventionally across the junction.

if ever*

It would have been very sensible to have done the same along Filton Bank during the recent virtual rebuild, but it wasn't done. Part of the problem with the electrification was the presence of all sorts of uncharted cabling alongside the tracks, meaning that the High Output kit couldn't be used as efficiently as expected. As a proportion of the total cost of the requadrification, foundations for the gantrys that will happen one day would have been modest. All the bridges along the Bank have been adapted or completely rebuilt to take the cables, but the absence of the foundations is one of those economy measures that is certain to cost a lot more in the long run.

Re “junction lighting” mentioned above - it is permanent low level lighting in the vicinity of S&C units to allow regular maintenance overnight without having to worry about taking portable lighting to the site.

IIRC the first major installations were at some junctions on the WCML.

Paul

Hillmorton
Client: Birse Rail
Type of Project: Junction Lighting
Value: £55k

The West Coast Main Line (WCML). The purpose of the lighting was to provide an appropriate level of illumination that would permit maintenance activities currently undertaken in daylight to be done during the night, when access is more readily available. “Flat Beam” Technology lights were used, set at 1.5m above rail level on posts and high level on existing structures.

Works comprised of:

    Installation of light fittings onto the pre-installed columns
    Installation of connection boxes onto the base of the columns
    Installation of lighting control equipment
    Electrical supply alterations
    Installation of cables into the existing troughing routes/ UTX
    Testing & Commissioning

Re “junction lighting” mentioned above - it is permanent low level lighting in the vicinity of S&C units to allow regular maintenance overnight without having to worry about taking portable lighting to the site.

Mine is so small I can carry it around in my tollbag, its called 'A TORCH'.

Of course, everyone knows the dictionary definition of a torch..........

"a metal or plastic container used for the storage of flat batteries"

Mine is so small I can carry it around in my tollbag...

...you wind it up and it always 'dies' at the most inconvenient moment.
 >:( >:( >:( >:(

But mine is one of these new fangled ones that don't need batteries, you wind it up and it always 'dies' at the most inconvenient moment.
 >:( >:( >:( >:(

Is it just me?

... A lot of extra cycle stands outside - I would have put them inside if they could fit them in, for bike security. No-one using the outside ones this morning, when I came through.

15:46 To Bath spa is delayed by about 14 minutes, this train may be delayed after Bristol temple meads due to a fault with the signalling system at Bath spa. We are sorry to announce that this train has no toilet facilities.

And this has what to do with Bristol TM redevelopment?

Something I noticed this morning which I thought odd
If St Anne's Gate is to be solely used as an exit, why are there two TV monitors showing departures times and a PA system announcing departures?

Seems a wasted expense

Something I noticed this morning which I thought odd
If St Anne's Gate is to be solely used as an exit, why are there two TV monitors showing departures times and a PA system announcing departures?

Seems a wasted expense

During the works to install two new gatelines it was found that the existing conduit within the Main Shed did not have the capacity to hold the caballing(sic) required for the gatelines.

But at least there is provision that it could be used as both and entrance and an exit, even if in general practice it's exit only.  So, if there is a problem with the concourse or Bonapartes, the station still has potential access and egress.

How is the PO building demolition going?  Haven't been that way recently to be able to have a look.

Yes, a lot of the old building is now rubble and vanishing fast. It'll be too dark to see it tonight when I pass through the station but last Monday if looked about half gone.
On thing I wondered about though. They could dispose of the rubble by road, river or rail from where they are. I wonder what they chose?

How is the PO building demolition going?  Haven't been that way recently to be able to have a look.

These days they usually crush it up and leave it on site for the new developers to use.

It is very much happening!

Meanwhile, Bristol City Council have applied (to themselves, of course) for planning permission to install a new 4m wide shared cycle path and pedestrian walkway running for about 450m south-eastwards from the ferry landing stage towards Not Arena Island. Plans are at https://www.bristol.gov.uk/planning-and-building-regulations/look-at-and-track-planning-applications ref 19/01051/LA.

The walkway will consist of pontoons floating in the Floating Harbour, and will pass under the northern end of Temple Meads Station.

Yes, it's the equivalent of the urban underpass and all the associated antisocial activities.
Likewise the bridge under Temple Meads at the northern end would not be my cup of tea at night either.
Are there architectural solutions? For example, but not really workable in this case, spaces under some of the bridges in London over the Thames are big enough to have cafes/restaurants next to the walkway. These stay open into the night making for a busier environment.
I'm no architect but I wonder if anyone could come up with workable solutions to the issue?

Meanwhile, Bristol City Council have applied (to themselves, of course) for planning permission to install a new 4m wide shared cycle path and pedestrian walkway running for about 450m south-eastwards from the ferry landing stage towards Not Arena Island. Plans are at https://www.bristol.gov.uk/planning-and-building-regulations/look-at-and-track-planning-applications ref 19/01051/LA.

The walkway will consist of pontoons floating in the Floating Harbour, and will pass under the northern end of Temple Meads Station.

You mean Avon Street and/or Gas Lane? Or even Kingsland Road as well. I've never heard of anything nasty happening there but they're not exactly pleasant (albeit for other reasons) in the daytime.

Of course something similar already does exist, alongside the New Cut and under whatever they call the Inner Circuit Road nowadays (Temple Way, I think). And Mrs Bmblbzzz, who used to work nearby, has reported unsettling events there, (under that bridge) though nothing specific (daytime).

<pedant mode>Floating Harbour, not New Cut. And it's been Temple Way since it was built.</pedant mode>

Neither the Avon Street Bridge nor the Cattle Market Road underpass would fill me full of joy to walk through at night. 😕  That, though, was just an example I gave.

I was thinking more about what to do about the proposed river walkway when it goes under the railway lines to avoid the sort of antisocial activities that you find in some underpasses especially after dark. Not an easy one that. Good lighting helps but on it's own, tends not to be sufficient and it's not even as if there would be a lot of cars passing either.
Perhaps a wider walking space under the railway? Perhaps a bit of thought into the general look? I'll give a recent example here. On a visit to Portsmouth a fortnight back, I used the underpass beneath the railway at Portsmouth Harbour Station to get to the Gunwharf Quays district. Now, rather than the usual grotty railway underpass, this one was well lit with nicely finished walls and ceiling, predominantly painted white. What struck me was that there was no graffiti, not just a little but absolutely none at all. No litter either.
Now, I admit this wasn't night time and it is a busy concourse but it really was not what I expected to encounter.

An avuncular old copper saying "Mind how you go!" might work...

In the absence of anything else much happening at Auld Leakie (aka Temple Meads), I am thrilled to hear that the Pumpkin (Platform 10/12) is to be refurbished and re-branded as a 'Coffee Room'. Full details at https://www.bristol.gov.uk/planning-and-building-regulations/look-at-and-track-planning-applications, search for 19/01075/LA.

Not seen the big exciting addition in the underpass mentioned anywhere yet . . .

After feedback from Bristol City Council and other partners, we submitted a revised masterplan in February 2018. This was unanimously approved subject to final details.

This shows changes to the layout of the buildings to allow easier access through the campus and provide more open and welcoming spaces for staff, students and the public to enjoy.

The main changes are:

Cattle Market Road site

• Three buildings instead of four; two academic and one residential.
• Siting the main academic building parallel to the harbour to improve opportunities for a vibrant waterfront area.
• Strengthening the connection to the potential entrance to Temple Meads Station.
• Re-aligning the pedestrian, cycle and transport links to work with the new layout.

(My bold)

I presume you mean the eastern entrance?

As you come down the steps from Platforms 3/4 it is just on the right hand side - As long as I am not running for my train I will get a piccy on the way home this evening

Am currently at New str, notice they have the same fountain outside the toilets in the yellow lounge here.
Must have been some funding nationwide?

Taken on departure from BTM heading towards Parkway

Surely someone could think of an appropriate flag to fly for the last few days? Even if at half-mast.

Taken on departure from BTM heading towards Parkway

Haven't got very far with this demolition project seeing it was started weeks ago, Oh its in Bristol. that explains it, its in the city where everything takes longer to achieve than elsewhere.

Haven't got very far with this demolition project seeing it was started weeks ago, Oh its in Bristol. that explains it, its in the city where everything takes longer to achieve than elsewhere.

...the building was a kind of L shape...

At Temple Meads there were posters informing everyone of a passenger count today and tomorrow and that a member of the survey staff might ask you to complete a brief questionnaire with them.
It didn't take all that long before one of said staff asked if I would participate and with about 15 minutes until my train I was pleased to oblige. Sadly it was a very brief one in my case as I fell at the first hurdle when asked if I was using the station to change trains (I wasn't). The chap told me that they were only surveying people using Temple Meads as a changing point.

I was on the look out for the people in orange no sign when I passed through over the past two days

Severnside CRP/Network Rail are working on a scheme to refurbish the Old Station Signal Box (that's the old manual box, not the 'modern' PSB) for use as (rather small) offices - see https://planningonline.bristol.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=P5BZ9IDNGRV00

Can't picture where the box is located. Just have passed it loads of times too!

Hope this link (https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-inside-the-original-temple-meads-railway-station-the-extended-train-35150734.html?pv=1&stamp=2&imageid=C7A9E48C-AA6D-415C-8197-C9062C313526&p=27394&n=0&orientation=0&pn=1) works. Should give you an idea.

A slightly contre-jour shot looking north-west from Cattle Market Road, with the main train shed of Temple Meads to the left. Still a bit to do!

In the next year work will begin on a new roof at the station which will enable the continued safe running of the station and more than 150 new seats will be installed.

Does 150 seats equate to two or three new 5-seater benches on each platform?

Quote
In the next year work will begin on a new roof at the station which will enable the continued safe running of the station and more than 150 new seats will be installed.

Not quite sure how to read that...

And here's an announcement from Network Rail (https://www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk/news/network-rail-sets-out-gbp-1million-plan-to-improve-station-facilities#) about having put in that water fountain, and similar stuff, to the tune of £1M. While it includes things both done and not yet done at Reading and Paddington, the biggest item is:

Not quite sure how to read that...

Apologies, was trying to upload to other thread, but created a new one in error

I'll leave for admin to merge

Sorted - grahame

But if you try to access it from the "last post" link on the home page (as I just did) you get a message saying that either the item is missing or is barred to you (or some such!)

Last bits

Whilst it may be nearly demolished above the ground, apparently there's quite a lot to sort out below ground as the building had a sizeable basement. The council has just authorised £140k for some test drilling to see if there is a cheaper way to sort it out, bearing in mind that under the terms of it's deal with the University, it is on the hook for the costs of demolition and site remediation.

Yes it works and I remember it now. It's true though, it is quite compact and bijou!

Aside from the fact that this application suggests things are still moving in the right direction with regard to the Bristol East Jct improvement, one drawing - the proposed Layout Plan (W1103F-BDG-DRG-ECV-000010, PROPOSED LAYOUT PLAN) gives a tantalising view of the new track layout: I'm no expert on these things but I can count, and there are definitely 7 tracks crossing Gas Lane Bridge instead of 6. Others may be able to glean more from staring at the S&C layout...

Over the next few years, Bristol Council expects that this area will be developed further with additional housing and facilities for Bristol University. Network rail shall be increasing passenger capacity and retail within the station itself and implement an electrification programme and Bristol East Junction (BEJ) track renewal and improvements to the existing junction layout east of Bristol Temple Meads to meet current and future forecasted demand. This will result in additional physical infrastructure within the railway boundary.

RS.  Has the old PO building gone now?  Any updated photographs? ;)

RS.  Has the old PO building gone now?  Any updated photographs? ;)

I was there on Wednesday. Entering and leaving Temple Meads by train you see no indication of the building. Looking from the platforms at that end of TM (and provided no IETs are blocking the view) you can see that there are still some "below ground" bits to demolish as the site is not totally level. Sadly no pics from me. It might not be long now until all the pics just show a cleared site.

“The rationale for expediting this scheme is to take advantage of the existing planned rail closure for Bristol East junction which would provide a window for the scheme and reduce costs.

According to the Bristol Post (story here (https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/bristol-temple-meads-labelled-poundland-2996405)), Network Rail are seeking to bring forward plans to extend of Temple Meads subway so as to exploit the blockade required for the Bristol East Jct project:

A council leader has raised alarms over the handling of a multi-million pound revamp of Bristol Temple Meads, as transport campaigners brandished it the “Poundland” of train stations.

The scheme is being pushed through faster than usual to take advantage of a window for the work to take place with the planned closure of a rail junction, according to a report to the West of England Combined Authority (Weca) Committee.

Bath & North East Somerset Council leader Dine Romero, at her first Weca meeting, said she needed reassurance about how the project would be handled because the £26.6million the combined authority has earmarked for it was “such a significant sum of money”.

The entrance will extend the existing passenger subway, used to access platforms, directly through to the development site on Cattle Market Road, where the University of Bristol intends to locate its new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus. The entrance will improve permeability through the station, and create a gateway entrance to the east of the city. The new entrance will include gatelines as a form of revenue protection to the station (it will not form part of a public unpaid route through the station), as well as required facilities for passengers to buy tickets, access information regarding trains, and potential retail facilities. The entrance will comply with Network Rail requirements regarding accessibility, security and safety, and design guidance for stations. The entrance will provide sufficient capacity to accommodate existing and future demand from the east of the station, which is expected to increase significantly as the University’s development is built out and the Temple Quarter area is regenerated. There will be a direct interface with the development site on Cattle Market Road, where it will be necessary to locate public realm and potentially canopy cover and cycle parking in connection with the new entrance.

The structural works required to deliver the entrance will require closure of platforms 13 and 15 for a number of weeks during construction, which currently service trains into London. Due to the level of disruption and cost associated with these track closures, it is necessary to utilise the existing planned closures that Network Rail has agreed for their network critical re-signalling works to Bristol East Junction. If the opportunity to align these two projects is missed then it may not be possible to deliver an eastern entrance to station, as it is unlikely that significant track closures for these services could be secured for this project in isolation.

[...]

Due to the criticality of utilising the planned track closures to carry out structural works, it is necessary to expedite the delivery timeframe of this project. The track closure is planned for Summer 2021; design work, procurement and enabling works associated with the new entrance must be complete by this time to allow structural works to be carried out during the Summer 2021 track closure. Any non-structural works to fit out and commission the entrance can be carried out after this period, but must be coordinated with the University of Bristol’s development and construction timescales.

Due to the level of interface and coordination with the Bristol East Junction signalling works and the compressed timescales for design work, Network Rail will take responsibility for delivery of this scheme, utilising in-house resource and expertise to progress the project through their GRIP governance process and ensure the Summer 2021 milestone can be met.

So. Only 2 years to get all the ducks in a row, or no eastern portal. I can't see that the university would countenance that, so things had better start moving.

As well as the exit to the underside of the incline,that comes out below the Station frontage,.

I didn't know about that one - and I used to work there  ;D

It's still used occasionally as a route to busses on rail replacement.

I have used it and it felt as though we were walking all the way to Yatton.  It also needs a good scrub and a coat of paint.

Where's the entrance from the subway then? Under the stairs by the lift to platform 3?

The Bristol East works is a track remodelling project and nothing to do with resignalling, that’s already done and dusted.

Yes

Did you know that at the bottom of the incline where the tram lines are and there is a childrens nursery at present there was a building which was the Bristol BR Staff Association building and underneath the bottom of the incline itself there were two skittle alleys in tunnels underneath the incline itself which run parallel to the Bath Road which were accessed from the BRSA building.

Confusion seems to reign on this one.

[snip]

 As a picture paints a thousand words ...

Me too I've played a couple of skittle matches there myself. In the 1970s the WLA used to have meetings in the bar ,iirc. That's The Western Locomotive Assocation ,not The Woman's Land Army !.


Whilst I'm here

It would seem that SOS Transport Paid a visit to Temple Meads today see the attached below.

https://www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk/transport-secretary-supports-major-project-to-improve-rail-services-across-the-west-of-england/.

Confusion seems to reign on this one.

Imagine you have stepped off a service from London via Parkway at TM on platform 15 and have climbed down the staircase to the subway and are heading along the subway, past the toilets on the left you come to some 4/5 steps up to a plinthe where you have the option to then turn left for more steps up to platform 4 or right for more steps up to platform 3. If you were to knock a hole in the wall which forms the 4th edge of the plinthe opposite the 4/5 steps you would find a flight of steps which takes you up to another wall which if you knocked a hole in that wall you would find you are out on the station forecourt.

When was this closed? The masonry on the outer wall looks old.

From platform three go down the steps to the underground subway ,and as soon as your feet hit the floor look to your left and there is a blue line on the floor that leads to the passenger lift, walk towards the lift and the doors that lead to the passageway are on your left hand side, it's not a public area inside ,so I will not go into any further details.

Walk into the Taylor's shop and ask for Mr Solo !.

From platform three go down the steps to the underground subway ,and as soon as your feet hit the floor look to your left and there is a blue line on the floor that leads to the passenger lift, walk towards the lift and the doors that lead to the passageway are on your left hand side, it's not a public area inside ,so I will not go into any further details.

When was this closed? The masonry on the outer wall looks old.

When was this closed? The masonry on the outer wall looks old.

The BTM tunnels tours begin from this passage. They are part of the annual Bristol Open Doors Days and the tours are free, but get booked very quickly due to limited spaces and high demand.

From a google search: https://www.flickr.com/photos/newage2/sets/72157624024078970/

As mentioned here and earlier on, these tours are booked out in the blink of an eye. I've had zero success in getting myself on a tour over some years. There must be people waiting online for the very second that tickets become available to book them. Sells out quicker than Glasto or the FA Cup.