There is a major opportunity in the areas around the station to meet our placemaking and inclusive growth ambitions, particularly the north of the station. This area, the Northern Gateway, is currently dominated by car parking, but it is well-placed to improve Bristol Temple Meads’ role as a gateway to the city-region and become an attractive destination to spend time, live and work. Improvements to the Northern Gateway are part-funded by the £94.7m awarded by central government in 2022.
The Northern Gateway is made up of a number of smaller, connected projects. By bringing them together, we can transform this part of Bristol Temple Quarter in a coordinated way.
Midland Shed
The Midland Shed is a significant heritage asset for the city, but it is currently used for car parking. There is the opportunity to transform the space for new passenger facilities, including toilets, ticket facilities, food and drink, and retail. Moving the parking will expand the interior capacity of the station and help to provide the services expected at a major railway station.
Relocating car parking
The majority of the Northern Gateway is dominated by surface level car parking, not just the Midland Shed. By moving parking to the Southern Gateway multi-modal transport hub land can be unlocked for new housing, public realm and office space around the station. Without moving the parking, we can’t deliver the homes and jobs Bristol needs.
Passenger Shed
Part of Brunel’s original station, the Passenger Shed is one of the most historically significant station buildings in the world. It is owned by Network Rail and undergoing repairs to the roof and interior. We are working with Network Rail to consider how the Passenger Shed can play its part in the transformed Northern Gateway, opening on to new public realm and helping us to create a vibrant, welcoming space.
Public and active travel
Across the Northern Gateway, new and improved public and active transport routes are proposed to improve connectivity in and out of the area. This includes a bus interchange at the Friary, including new facilities for bus passengers.
Public Realm
The Northern Gateway project is an exciting opportunity to deliver new public spaces and greening across the area, helping to make Bristol Temple Meads a destination where people want to dwell and spend time.
Station Approach
The forecourt outside the station is currently congested with buses, private vehicles and taxis. Our ambition is to pedestrianise this area to create a spacious station square that celebrates the heritage façade of the station. A taxi rank will be retained further down Station Approach, along with dedicated Blue Badge parking with step free access to the concourse.
