New metrobus service linking Cribbs Causeway and Bristol Parkway to launch

The new m4 service will start next spring
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A new metrobus route linking Cribbs Causeway and Bristol Parkway will launch next year, it has been announced.

The new m4 service will run through Stoke Gifford, Patchway and Filton, and will add to the three current metro bus routes in the city.

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The service will launch in spring next year and has been made possible thanks to £57million funding from the West of England Combined Authority (Weca). The money will also pay for the upgrading of bus stops, ticket machines known as ‘iPoints’ and CCTV for improved safety.

First Bus will operate the route, said Metro Mayor Dan Norris in the announcement this week. The travel operator said the current metrobus routes made travelling by bus faster and more direct journeys.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris with First’s Managing Director Doug Claringbold at Bristol Parkway StationMetro Mayor Dan Norris with First’s Managing Director Doug Claringbold at Bristol Parkway Station
Metro Mayor Dan Norris with First’s Managing Director Doug Claringbold at Bristol Parkway Station

But Doug Claringbold, managing director of First Bus, said: “We are delighted to be operating this new metrobus route and very much welcome the ongoing investment in bus infrastructure which is critical to the region’s transition to a sustainable, low carbon future.

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“Since the m3 and m2 were launched in 2018, followed by the m1 in January 2019, they have carried over 11 million passengers, despite the pandemic. These services enable faster, more direct journeys which offer customers a very viable alternative to taking the car.”

As well as new ‘metrobus standard’ bus shelters, cyclist parking and ‘fully accessible kerbs’ will be introduced along the route.

Mr Norris said: “I’m so pleased that we’ve got First on board to operate this important new service fully funded from the West of England Combined Authority I lead, which will make a real difference to communities in Stoke Gifford to Patchway and beyond.

“The m4 will get even more people out of cars and onto our snazzy new greener, cleaner and reliable buses, so important if we’re going reach our net-zero ambitions and ensure more local people breathe cleaner air and lead healthier lives.”

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The new Cribbs Patchway bus route, which has been project-led by South Gloucestershire Council, will also include new bus lanes, cycle and pedestrian pathways, and improvements to the San Andreas roundabout at Cribbs Causeway.

South Gloucestershire Council’s cabinet member for transport Councillor Steve Reade said: “The Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension is a flagship project for South Gloucestershire Council and is part of our commitment to improve public transport, walking and cycling facilities and the road network in the area.

“We have worked closely with the Combined Authority since its inception, who have backed the scheme and agreed the £57 million funding enabling the creation of this vital new route, which is nearing completion.

“I am very pleased to see this project reach such an important milestone and welcome First Bus onboard. This new metrobus service will make public transport a credible and attractive option for our residents living in Stoke Gifford and Patchway and for those moving to and working in the Cribbs Patchway New Neighbourhood.”

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