This week, Network Rail completed the installation of two new railway lines between Filton Abbey Wood and Bristol Temple Meads – doubling the number of lines into Temple Meads from two to four.

The additional capacity means local stopping services can run on separate lines from the faster, intercity services and so avoid the bottleneck and related delays often experienced by passengers travelling to or from Temple Meads. The work by Network Rail will enable an increase in the number of passenger and freight trains, helping to meet a growing demand, and reduce the impact of maintenance on this part of the route in future.

Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees said: “I’m grateful for the work Network Rail have done to put these important improvements in place and recognise the patience of everyone affected while these were being done.

“By investing in infrastructure with our partner organisations, we move closer to delivering a thriving transport exchange at Temple Meads that will support our ambitions for Temple Quarter, Bristol and the wider city region. Better and faster transport connections are crucial to building Bristol’s success, ensuring accessibility to new jobs and homes and supporting inclusive growth across the West of England.”

Read the full story on Network Rail’s website.