• Swindon & Wiltshire Economy
• Friday June 6 2025

Mass transit scheme could finally be coming to Bristol after £800 million investment pledge

Bristol’s long-awaited mass transit system could finally be on track, after the government announced an £800 million investment in the region’s transport.

On Wednesday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced £15 billion for transport projects in mayoral authorities across the Midlands, the North and the West Country.

The announcement included £800 million for the West of England to improve rail infrastructure, provide more frequent trains between the Brabazon industrial estate in Bristol and the city centre, and develop mass transit between Bristol, Bath, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset.

Welcoming the news Helen Godwin, the new Mayor of the West of England, said: Our region has a strong economy overall, but we know that congestion has held the West of England back from achieving its full potential.

“We’ve been stuck in the slow lane on transport for too long. Our potential additional contribution to the national economy is enormous. It’s time to invest in the West and unlock that growth.

“I promised to work with government and get the West of England moving. Three-quarters of a billion pounds of new money for transport will do just that, as we start a new chapter for our region.

“Together, we need to accelerate plans to secure better buses, deliver more trains and railway stations, and give local people proper alternatives to their cars. Trams, Metrobuses, rail, light rail, and guided buses are all on the table to make that a reality.

“Over the years, as a region, we’ve talked too much about mass transit and delivered too little. It’s finally time to deliver a mass transit system that people can rely on.

“Working with the new government, and with genuine collaboration between local councils, it’s time for real change.”

The news was welcomed by business leaders. Matt Griffith, director of policy at Business West, said: “We welcome the news that the West of England will benefit from £800 million investment, including £200 million to develop a mass transit network.

“Business West has long argued that better transport connectivity is fundamental to improving economic growth, social mobility and decarbonisation.

“It is also a very positive sign that our region is being recognised by central government for its growth potential, and the vital need for large scale future transport infrastructure investment to unlock this.

“We look forward to working with our new Mayor and the business community to give this region the decent transport infrastructure it deserves.”

Image of a tram at Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich by Mircea Iancu from Pixabay