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Author Topic: Bristol Undergound  (Read 15243 times)
JC
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« on: May 04, 2018, 16:23:58 »

Plans were published some 9 months ago for a Bristol Underground.

These plans were generally welcomed as the congestion problems in and around Bristol as we all recognize are severe. Some considerable doubt was cast however over the funding required for such a radical scheme. If Bristol is to have a future as a dynamic city this is a massive hurdle that has to be overcome. I would suggest that doubters visit Bordeaux to see what can be achieved.

In terms of what the scheme as proposed would deliver was in my mind, however, most disappointing.
Principally, the catchment area was within a narrow north/south channel, so that there was little attraction to residents living in Western or Eastern areas. Further, the system proposed was very much Bristol city centre centric. The newly introduced Metrobus line also occupied much the same catchment areas.

My view at the time was that there had to be a more imaginative design that would address these issues.

The intention was to use much of the existing infrastructure where possible. On the continent, where new integrated city transport networks have been successfully introduced, this was shown to be crucial in delivering a cost-effective solution.

It was also felt highly desirable to link up with the Henbury loop line which has gained considerable support and backing.

Another key consideration was the need to minimise disruption during the construction phase where possible.

If we are to have an integrated transport system, we have to have in my mind a plan that embraces a vision which people and the politicians can buy into. In the interim, we should go with a sticky plaster approach for the short term if needs must, provided it conforms with the overall plan/vision. To achieve these goals and commitment all round, healthy debate has to be encouraged.

As regards myself, I would describe myself as a frustrated Bristol resident shocked at the transport legacy systems in use, shocked at the political in-fighting within the whole area, and shocked at the lack of foresight/imagination of the powers that be.

The plan I have put together is based on 3 loops, together with an Airport Expressway.

See attached Link for Bristol city centre map and 3 Loops Solution schema.
   
https://ibb.co/n28Pg7

https://ibb.co/eikRuS



The overall schema entails 4 interlinked construction projects to be phased over some 15 years.

There will be numerous civil engineering challenges but none of which are perceived to be insurmountable.

It is envisaged the network will consist of a combination of existing tracks, new tracks both overhead and above ground, plus underground tracks - some of which in the centre will be tunnelled below Bristol's waterways.

« Last Edit: May 07, 2018, 14:28:52 by JC » Logged
JC
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« Reply #1 on: May 04, 2018, 19:27:23 »



« Last Edit: May 11, 2018, 17:06:34 by JC » Logged
grahame
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« Reply #2 on: May 05, 2018, 16:31:32 »

Plans were published some 9 months ago for a Bristol Underground.

These plans were generally welcomed as the congestion problems in and around Bristol as we all recognize are severe. Some considerable doubt was cast however over the funding required for such a radical scheme. If Bristol is to have a future as a dynamic city this is a massive hurdle that has to be overcome. I would suggest that doubters visit Bordeaux to see what can be achieved.

In terms of what the scheme as proposed would deliver was in my mind, however, most disappointing.
Principally, the catchment area was within a narrow north/south channel, so that there was little attraction to residents living in Western or Eastern areas. Further, the system proposed was very much Bristol city centre centric. The newly introduced Metrobus line also occupied much the same catchment areas.

My view at the time was that there had to be a more imaginative design that would address these issues.

I applaud you for your imagination, JC.  And for your look at precedent and the sort of thing that can be achieved - in your example Bordeaux.

There are many, many experts who have qualifications and experience in town and city and transport planning and operation, and vested interests in that field too.  I don't know your background, but the knee-jerk reaction to the potentially inexperienced, though bright and thoughtful idea is to wonder what's wrong with it, on the basis that the whole business is far too complicated for a newcomer to understand, so something must be wrong.  Such experts may have a natural aversion to not-invented-here, a feeling that the suggester isn't going to stick around for the long term and could give them a baby then leave them to bring it up, and a feeling that it's going to be biased towards providing a superb service for the suggester's home and typical journey far more that it merits.  They will also,almost inevitably, be in the midst of 2, 5, 10 and 20 year transport and scheme plans, in which effort and money will have been invested, and will not want to change horses mid-race, with a problem that the race is a perpetual one so there's never a good time to change.  Please do not shoot the messenger!

Quote
The intention was to use much of the existing infrastructure where possible. On the continent, where new integrated city transport networks have been successfully introduced, this was shown to be crucial in delivering a cost-effective solution.

Yes, sensible

Quote
It was also felt highly desirable to link up with the Henbury loop line which has gained considerable support and backing.

Generallity - who felt that.  Figures?  Evidence?  Group policy?  I'm asking the questions here that others will wonder but may not ask.

Quote
Another key consideration was the need to minimise disruption during the construction phase where possible.

GWR (Great Western Railway) and Network Rail don't seem to agree with you on that one - or if they do, they're not making a very good job of it.

There is indeed a need to keep services running ... but there is a balance between time, cost of work, and disruption.  For example, they have gone for 50 weekdays of closure of Pewsey, Bedwyn, Kintbury, Hunderford, Newbury, Newbury Racecourse, Midgham, Thatcham and Aldermaston this year to get works done quicker and cheaper than if they worked at nights and on Sundays.   Same thing for Filton Bank and the Severn Tunnel.

Quote
.... To achieve these goals and commitment all round, healthy debate has to be encouraged.

As regards myself, I would describe myself as a frustrated Bristol resident shocked at the transport legacy systems in use, shocked at the political in-fighting within the whole area, and shocked at the lack of foresight/imagination of the powers that be.

Agreed on healthy debate ... but then JFDI (just flipping do it (polite version)).  (definition of JFDI within [here] )


Quote
The plan I have put together is based on 3 loops, together with an Airport Expressway.[See attached] The overall schema entails 4 interlinked construction projects to be phased over some 15 years.

There will be numerous civil engineering challenges but none of which are perceived to be insurmountable.

It is envisaged the network will consist of a combination of existing tracks, new tracks both overhead and above ground, plus underground tracks - some of which in the centre will be tunnelled below Bristol's waterways.

I'm going to let others comment on that; I am not a Bristolian and have enough different views and thoughts from experts, politicians and residents without me (none of those three) chucking another load of specifics and ideas in.  If it were me, I might suggest that Portishead could be served by a branch off a redoubled Severn Beach line at Sea Mills to Pill - a few hundred yards of straight and level track, with (admittedly) a bridge, that would make a huge saving through the gorge.
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« Reply #3 on: May 05, 2018, 18:53:14 »

I'm going to let others comment on that; I am not a Bristolian and have enough different views and thoughts from experts, politicians and residents without me (none of those three) chucking another load of specifics and ideas in.  If it were me, I might suggest that Portishead could be served by a branch off a redoubled Severn Beach line at Sea Mills to Pill - a few hundred yards of straight and level track, with (admittedly) a bridge, that would make a huge saving through the gorge.

The problem with a bridge at Pill is headroom.  I believe that the requirement for tall ships to reach Bristol (which resulted in the very high M5 bridge at Avonmouth) still applies so your bridge will need to be a swing bridge.
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grahame
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« Reply #4 on: May 05, 2018, 19:06:55 »

I'm going to let others comment on that; I am not a Bristolian and have enough different views and thoughts from experts, politicians and residents without me (none of those three) chucking another load of specifics and ideas in.  If it were me, I might suggest that Portishead could be served by a branch off a redoubled Severn Beach line at Sea Mills to Pill - a few hundred yards of straight and level track, with (admittedly) a bridge, that would make a huge saving through the gorge.

The problem with a bridge at Pill is headroom.  I believe that the requirement for tall ships to reach Bristol (which resulted in the very high M5 bridge at Avonmouth) still applies so your bridge will need to be a swing bridge.

There you go - told you not to listen to me about Bristol  Grin  Grin  Grin .   Wonder what the relative cost of a swing bridge is, and whether it would be more acceptable to Network Rail than the Ashton Gate level crossing issue?
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martyjon
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« Reply #5 on: May 05, 2018, 20:29:55 »

I'm going to let others comment on that; I am not a Bristolian and have enough different views and thoughts from experts, politicians and residents without me (none of those three) chucking another load of specifics and ideas in.  If it were me, I might suggest that Portishead could be served by a branch off a redoubled Severn Beach line at Sea Mills to Pill - a few hundred yards of straight and level track, with (admittedly) a bridge, that would make a huge saving through the gorge.

The problem with a bridge at Pill is headroom.  I believe that the requirement for tall ships to reach Bristol (which resulted in the very high M5 bridge at Avonmouth) still applies so your bridge will need to be a swing bridge.

Sea Mills - Change here for ferry to Pill.
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JayMac
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« Reply #6 on: May 05, 2018, 22:50:08 »

Sea Mills - Change here for ferry to Pill.

Nah. Its Shirehampton for the Pill Ferry. Well it was until 1974. Wink



You get a great view across the river to Pill whilst supping an ale in the beer garden of the Lamplighters Inn, Shirehampton.

One of the last boats used as a ferry at Pill is still used as a passenger ferry around the Floating Harbour in Bristol.

https://www.bristolferry.com/our-boats/margaret/
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simonw
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« Reply #7 on: May 06, 2018, 19:59:02 »

Time for a few hundred yards of tunnelling then.
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Red Squirrel
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« Reply #8 on: May 10, 2018, 23:23:21 »

I'm going to let others comment on that; I am not a Bristolian and have enough different views and thoughts from experts, politicians and residents without me (none of those three) chucking another load of specifics and ideas in.  If it were me, I might suggest that Portishead could be served by a branch off a redoubled Severn Beach line at Sea Mills to Pill - a few hundred yards of straight and level track, with (admittedly) a bridge, that would make a huge saving through the gorge.

The problem with a bridge at Pill is headroom.  I believe that the requirement for tall ships to reach Bristol (which resulted in the very high M5 bridge at Avonmouth) still applies so your bridge will need to be a swing bridge.

Sea Mills - Change here for ferry to Pill.

You'd be better by far in the Duke or the Star...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9rZdEXRqt8
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Red Squirrel
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« Reply #9 on: October 22, 2018, 10:41:32 »

South Glos Mayor Marvin Trump has made his 'State of the Nation' address. Apparently everything was awful when he took over, but it's all brilliant now, so that's all good.

For me, the most thrilling bit concerned the new Bristol Underground. According to Bristol 24/7:

Quote
“We’re not talking about the London tube with 200-metre long trains. A key element of what makes it possible and quicker is we may not even need rails or track – some automated systems around the world just run by following a simple white line painted on the floor. But we are clearly planning for a segregated, mass transit system using tunnels and infrastructure appropriate for Bristol’s future needs.”

I think this statement is helpful because it is good to know where to set your expectations: slightly better than a wheezing corporation bus, but not quite as compellingly indulgent as MetroBus.
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JayMac
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« Reply #10 on: October 22, 2018, 16:25:45 »

You can't have people in tunnels under a city, or in segregated mass transit, Marvin.

That's a security liability.  Roll Eyes
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« Reply #11 on: October 22, 2018, 20:28:58 »

You can't have people in tunnels under a city, or in segregated mass transit, Marvin.

That's a security liability.  Roll Eyes
No, it's only the proximity to Temple Meads that would make it a security liability. Which is obviously why MetroFuss doesn't go there.
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simonw
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« Reply #12 on: December 19, 2018, 09:38:13 »

The recent announcement from the Boring Co ,

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-46616902

The article outlines the building of 1 mile of tunnel at $10M, with a width of 12ft. This intrigues me because I believe that the Glasgow subway is even narrower!

Surely, Bristol could build such a system? Would it be worth Mr Rees and Mr Bowles to visit  the Boring Co @ Los Angeles to investigate the possibilities?
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martyjon
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« Reply #13 on: December 19, 2018, 10:56:27 »

The recent announcement from the Boring Co ,

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-46616902

The article outlines the building of 1 mile of tunnel at $10M, with a width of 12ft. This intrigues me because I believe that the Glasgow subway is even narrower!

Surely, Bristol could build such a system? Would it be worth Mr Rees and Mr Bowles to visit  the Boring Co @ Los Angeles to investigate the possibilities?


Don't suggest that otherwise that billion £'s Mr. Bowles has to spend on infrastructure will be all gone, he's already spent or committed millions to projects other than infrastructure like setting up an IBB board, Invest in Bristol and Bath rather than getting anything done to assist Bristolians and their neighbours get anywhere quickly. Both Rees and Bowles ought to get off their backsides and travel round Bristol and the surrounding area as front seat passengers on the top deck of a double deck bus and they'll see where the pinch points really are and then set up a 'quick fix' team to sort the problem out in a matter of hours.

Foe example, a couple of parking bays on an arterial route into Bristol causes congestion because two 8 foot 6 inch vehicles cannot pass each other whilst travelling in opposite directions.

Solution, take a couple of parking  cones, remove the white sleeve from the cone, with a black felt tip marker pen write on the sleeves 'BAY SUSPENDED', replace the sleeves and them dump the cones in the offending bays AND THEN go through the official paperwork route to get the bays removed under the necessary road regulations.

A now retired council officer told me of how councils waste money and gave me an example. A road marking exercise was a bit ambiguous and so a simple addition of a bit of white lining was required which the contractor billed the council £498 for the job. The councils internal costs for that exercise was £8,500 when all the officers time was totted up, drawings had to be produced, royalties paid to Ordnance Survey for the use of mapping data, a council official had to go and check the job had been done to specification despite the road lining contractor being very reliable, some junior council employee writing up a report to be presented to councillors even though the minor project was enacted by way of delegated powers.

The whole job could have been done by a single council employee meeting the white lining contractors team foreman who armed with a can of white spray paint could spray where a split arrow should go and where a white line should be extended to and thus saved the council taxpayer well in excess of £6,000 - £7,000.
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« Reply #14 on: December 19, 2018, 11:48:45 »

...set up a 'quick fix' team to sort the problem out in a matter of hours.

Apparently they had a quick fix team to sort out the layout of deckchairs on the RMS Titanic; when the ship went down the Feng Shui was spot on... Wink

Probably everyone has a favourite pinch point that could be sorted out for the price of a pot of paint or 20 minutes with a JCB, perhaps by stopping someone else parking near their house or removing someone else's safe route to school... The real problem is that there is not sufficient road capacity for the number of people currently wanting to use it. It really doesn't help to imagine that there's a quick, easy or cheap solution to this.

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