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{{Short description|Railway in Bristol and |
{{Short description|Railway in Bristol and Gloucestershire, England}} | ||
{{Cleanup bare URLs|date=September 2022}} | |||
{{Use British English|date=December 2012}} | {{Use British English|date=December 2012}} | ||
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2021}} | {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2021}} | ||
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| start = {{rws|Bristol Temple Meads}}<br />{{coord|51.4492|-2.5803|type:railwaystation_region:GB|display=inline|name=Bristol Temple Meads station}} | | start = {{rws|Bristol Temple Meads}}<br />{{coord|51.4492|-2.5803|type:railwaystation_region:GB|display=inline|name=Bristol Temple Meads station}} | ||
| end = {{rws|Severn Beach}}<br />{{coord|51.5599|-2.6645|type:railwaystation_region:GB|display=inline|name=Severn Beach station}} | | end = {{rws|Severn Beach}}<br />{{coord|51.5599|-2.6645|type:railwaystation_region:GB|display=inline|name=Severn Beach station}} | ||
| stations = |
| stations = 12 | ||
| routes = | | routes = | ||
| ridership2 = 1.25 million (2016) <ref>{{cite web|url=http://fosbr.org.uk/ourcase|title=FOSBR - Our case 2017|last=FOSBR|website=fosbr.org.uk|access-date=22 April 2018}}</ref> | | ridership2 = 1.25 million (2016) <ref>{{cite web|url=http://fosbr.org.uk/ourcase|title=FOSBR - Our case 2017|last=FOSBR|website=fosbr.org.uk|access-date=22 April 2018}}</ref> | ||
| open = 1840 ({{rws|Bristol Temple Meads||Temple Meads}} to Bristol West Jn)<br />1863 (Bristol West Jn to Narroways Hill Jn)<br />1875 (Narroways Hill Jn to {{rws|Clifton Down}})<br />1877 (])<br />1900 ({{rws|Avonmouth}} to {{rws|Pilning}}) | | open = 1840 ({{rws|Bristol Temple Meads||Temple Meads}} to Bristol West Jn)<br />1863 (Bristol West Jn to Narroways Hill Jn)<br />1875 (Narroways Hill Jn to {{rws|Clifton Down}})<br />1877 (])<br />1900 ({{rws|Avonmouth}} to {{rws|Pilning}})<br />2023 (]) | ||
| close = | | close = | ||
| owner = ] | | owner = ] | ||
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| character = | | character = | ||
| depot = ] | | depot = ] | ||
| stock = |
| stock = ]<br />]<br />] | ||
| linelength = | | linelength = | ||
| tracklength = | | tracklength = | ||
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{{Severn Beach Line|collapse=y}} | {{Severn Beach Line|collapse=y}} | ||
{{Severn Beach Line detail|collapse=yes}} | {{Severn Beach Line detail|collapse=yes}} | ||
The '''Severn Beach line''' is a local railway line in ] and ], England |
The '''Severn Beach line''' is a local railway line in ] and ], England, which runs from {{rws|Bristol Temple Meads}} to {{rws|Severn Beach}}, and used to extend to {{rws|Pilning}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.systemed.net/atlas/|title=The New Adlestrop Railway Atlas - historical UK railway map|website=systemed.net|access-date=22 April 2018}}</ref> The first sections of the line were opened in 1865 as part of the ]; the section through Bristol was opened in 1875 as the ]. | ||
The line has faced several threats of closure over the years, and has been reduced to single track in many places.<ref>{{ cite web | url = http://www.networkrail.co.uk/browsedirectory.aspx?dir=%5Cbaseline%20capability%5Ctrack%20and%20route%20mileage,%20permissible%20line%20speeds&root | title = Track and route mileage, permissible line speeds | website = Network Rail | date = n.d. | publisher = ] | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160118104222/https://www.networkrail.co.uk/browsedirectory.aspx?dir=%5Cbaseline%20capability%5Ctrack%20and%20route%20mileage,%20permissible%20line%20speeds&root | archive-date = 18 January 2016 | url-status = dead }}</ref> In the 21st century it has experienced a surge in passenger numbers, with a 90% increase in the years 2007–2011.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://severnbeachline.org/news/community-rail-brings-improvements.php |title=Severn Beach Line - News |access-date=2012-09-07 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130825225430/http://www.severnbeachline.org/news/community-rail-brings-improvements.php |archive-date=25 August 2013 }}</ref> All services along the line are operated by ], generally two trains per hour in each direction between Temple Meads and {{rws|Avonmouth}}, calling at all stations, with one train per hour extended to Severn Beach. The line carries little freight traffic, with most of the heavy freight traffic to ] being routed via the ] through ]. The line was highlighted by ] as one of the scenic lines of Europe.<ref name="insideout" /> | |||
== Route == | == Route == | ||
From {{rws|Bristol Temple Meads}}, the line heads east, diverging from the ], ] and ] at Bristol East Junction. The line curves to the north, passing under the A4320 and then joining with a chord from the Great Western Main Line at Dr Day's Junction. At this point there are four tracks, but this |
From {{rws|Bristol Temple Meads}}, the line heads east, diverging from the ], ] and ] at Bristol East Junction. The line curves to the north, passing under the A4320 and then joining with a chord from the Great Western Main Line at Dr Day's Junction. At this point there are four tracks, but in the past this narrowed to two before {{rws|Lawrence Hill}}. Four tracks were restored as part of the Great Western route improvements.{{Citation needed|date=October 2023}} Continuing north, the line passes under the old ] ], passes through {{rws|Stapleton Road}} station, then diverges west from the ] at Narroways Hill Junction. The line from here is single track, passing through woodland and circling the ] area, then passing under the B4052 (Ashley Hill) before reaching {{rws|Montpelier}}. The line then passes over the ] on a viaduct known as "The Arches", before reaching {{rws|Redland}} and continuing along a straight cutting through ] before reaching {{rws|Clifton Down}}. This is the line's main passing point, as it is one of the few remaining places with double track. | ||
The line then enters the mile-long ], reappearing in the ]. It follows the ], passing through {{rws|Sea Mills}} before heading inland to {{rws|Shirehampton}} and {{rws|Portway Park & Ride}}, under the ] and through an industrial estate before reaching {{rws|Avonmouth}}. Beyond Avonmouth, the line passes through a small residential area before reaching ]. A freight yard is to the east of the line here, used for coal trains. {{rws|St Andrews Road}} is within the yard, and to the north the ] diverges to the east. The Severn Beach line continues north along the bank of the ] to the terminus at {{rws|Severn Beach}}.<ref name="Baker">{{cite book|first=S.K.|last=Baker|title=Rail Atlas of Great Britain and Ireland|edition=12|year=2010|isbn=978-0-86093-632-9|publisher=Ian Allan}}</ref><ref name="OS">{{cite book |title=OS Landranger Map 172 – Bristol & Bath |year=2008 |publisher=] |location=Southampton |isbn=978-0-319-22914-9}}</ref><ref name="CNX">{{cite web|url=http://www.railwaycodes.org.uk/elrs/_mileages/c/cnx.shtm|title=Engineers' Line References: CNX Clifton Extension Line|access-date=13 March 2024|author=Deaves, Phil}}</ref><ref name="AMB">{{cite web|url=http://www.railwaycodes.org.uk/elrs/_mileages/a/amb.shtm|title=Engineers' Line References: AMB Avonmouth Branch|access-date=13 March 2024|author=Deaves, Phil}}</ref> | |||
Beyond Severn Beach, the line used to continue north through the town and along the |
Beyond Severn Beach, the line used to continue north through the town and further along the bank of the Severn, meeting the ]'s line near {{rws|New Passage Pier}}. It then joined with the ] at {{rws|Pilning}}.<ref name="Baker" /><ref name="OS" /><ref name="CNX" /><ref name="AMB" /> | ||
The line |
The line was listed among ] most favoured attractions for its scenic route along the River Avon and River Severn.<ref name="insideout">{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/insideout/west/series6/railway.shtml|title=BBC Inside Out – Bristol's Severn Beach Railway Line|publisher=]|date=20 September 2004|access-date=28 July 2012}}</ref> | ||
== Services == | == Services == | ||
Services along the line are operated by Great Western Railway, mainly using diesel {{brc|166}} ''Turbo'' units.<ref name="166first">{{cite press release|url=http://www.firstgroupplc.com/news-and-media/latest-news/2017/03-07-17b.aspx|title= Massive increase in Bristol train seats begins today |publisher=]|date=3 July 2017|access-date=5 July 2017}}</ref> Until mid-2017, the line had been operated by {{brc|150}} ''Sprinter'' units, occasionally supplemented by {{brc|153}} ''Super Sprinter'' and {{brc|158}} ''Express Sprinter'' units.<ref name="successful">{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Newer-trains-seats-track-commuter-line/story-11235537-detail/story.html|title=First Great Western will add to service on successful Severn Bridge rail line|date=25 January 2011|access-date=23 June 2012|work=This is Bristol}}</ref><ref name="nytbl">{{cite |
Services along the line are operated by Great Western Railway, mainly using diesel {{brc|166}} ''Turbo'' units.<ref name="166first">{{cite press release|url=http://www.firstgroupplc.com/news-and-media/latest-news/2017/03-07-17b.aspx|title= Massive increase in Bristol train seats begins today |publisher=]|date=3 July 2017|access-date=5 July 2017}}</ref> Until mid-2017, the line had been operated by {{brc|150}} ''Sprinter'' units, occasionally supplemented by {{brc|153}} ''Super Sprinter'' and {{brc|158}} ''Express Sprinter'' units.<ref name="successful">{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Newer-trains-seats-track-commuter-line/story-11235537-detail/story.html|title=First Great Western will add to service on successful Severn Bridge rail line|date=25 January 2011|access-date=23 June 2012|work=This is Bristol}}</ref><ref name="nytbl">{{cite magazine |last= Salveson |first= Paul |title= Severn Beach: Not your typical branch line! |magazine=] |issue=126 |date=June 2012| pages=42–47}}</ref> Until 2012, {{brc|143}} ''Pacer'' units were a regular sight, but these were moved south to work in ] following a cascade of Class 150/1 units from ] and ].<ref name="nytbl"/><ref name="LOROL">{{cite magazine |last= Miles |first= Tony |title= LOROL Class 150s all with FGW |magazine=] |issue= |date=December 2010| page=90}}{{Full citation needed|date=May 2023}}</ref> | ||
Monday to Friday, two trains per hour run from {{rws|Bristol Temple Meads}} to {{rws|Avonmouth}}, with one extended to {{rws|St Andrew's Road}} and {{rws|Severn Beach}}, giving a service at Clifton Down of one train approximately every 30 minutes in each direction. Services start alternately from Bristol and {{rws|Weston-super-Mare}}. There is a similar level of service on Saturdays. Sunday sees a roughly hourly service to and from Bristol, with all daytime services extended to Severn Beach.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gwr.com/~/media/gwr/pdfs/plan-journey/timetables/2021/december/b9-1212.pdf?la=en|title=Train times: Bristol Temple Meads and Weston-super-Mare to Avonmouth and Severn Beach|work=Great Western Railway|access-date=13 December 2021}}</ref> | Monday to Friday, two trains per hour run from {{rws|Bristol Temple Meads}} to {{rws|Avonmouth}}, with one extended to {{rws|St Andrew's Road}} and {{rws|Severn Beach}}, giving a service at Clifton Down of one train approximately every 30 minutes in each direction. Services start alternately from Bristol and {{rws|Weston-super-Mare}}. There is a similar level of service on Saturdays. Sunday sees a roughly hourly service to and from Bristol, with all daytime services extended to Severn Beach.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gwr.com/~/media/gwr/pdfs/plan-journey/timetables/2021/december/b9-1212.pdf?la=en|title=Train times: Bristol Temple Meads and Weston-super-Mare to Avonmouth and Severn Beach|work=Great Western Railway|access-date=13 December 2021}}</ref> | ||
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=== Post-privatisation === | === Post-privatisation === | ||
] is one of the main campaign groups supporting the line. Here they stage a demonstration in 2010 at {{rws|Clifton Down}}, calling for an improved service.]] | ] is one of the main campaign groups supporting the line. Here they stage a demonstration in 2010 at {{rws|Clifton Down}}, calling for an improved service.]] | ||
When the railway was ] in 1997, local services were franchised to ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.railwaycodes.org.uk/operators/franchises.shtm|title=UK railway franchises|date=5 May 2015|access-date=6 May 2015|author=Deaves, Phil}}</ref> which was succeeded by ] in 2001.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.walesandwest.co.uk/|title=Wales and West|publisher=]|access-date=9 June 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120314050333/http://www.walesandwest.co.uk/|archive-date=14 March 2012}}</ref> Following action by ] (FOSBR, later renamed Friends of Suburban Bristol Railways) and a string of protests, services had increased to 10 per day in each direction by 2005,<ref name="Oakley">{{cite book|title=Bristol Railway Stations 1840–2005|publisher=Redcliffe Press|author=Oakley, Mike|year=2006|isbn=1-904537-54-5}}</ref> with ] paying a subsidy of £138,000 per annum to fund services.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/bristol/4757154.stm|title=Lobby to save Severn Beach line|date=27 February 2006|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> A new subsidy agreement had been reached in 2003, following a threat that the end of subsidy would see services along the line halved.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/bristol/3288039.stm|title=Suburban rail cash boost|date=3 December 2003|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> However, even with the subsidy, the line still suffered to keep the rest of the network running. Mike Holmes, station manager for most of the line's stations, told the ] that: | When the railway was ] in 1997, local services were franchised to ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.railwaycodes.org.uk/operators/franchises.shtm|title=UK railway franchises|date=5 May 2015|access-date=6 May 2015|author=Deaves, Phil}}</ref> which was succeeded by ] in 2001.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.walesandwest.co.uk/|title=Wales and West|publisher=]|access-date=9 June 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120314050333/http://www.walesandwest.co.uk/|archive-date=14 March 2012}}</ref> | ||
=== 21st century === | |||
Following action by ] (FOSBR, later renamed Friends of Suburban Bristol Railways) and a string of protests, services had increased to 10 per day in each direction by 2005,<ref name="Oakley">{{cite book|title=Bristol Railway Stations 1840–2005|publisher=Redcliffe Press|author=Oakley, Mike|year=2006|isbn=1-904537-54-5}}</ref> with ] paying a subsidy of £138,000 per annum to fund services.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/bristol/4757154.stm|title=Lobby to save Severn Beach line|date=27 February 2006|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> A new subsidy agreement had been reached in 2003, following a threat that the end of subsidy would see services along the line halved.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/bristol/3288039.stm|title=Suburban rail cash boost|date=3 December 2003|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> However, even with the subsidy, the line still suffered to keep the rest of the network running. Mike Holmes, station manager for most of the line's stations, told the ] that: | |||
<blockquote>Before we put real effort into the Severn Beach line it was really the sacrificial lamb for other services. So if we needed a spare train, we would pull one off the line and cancel it, which was why punctuality and reliability was so poor. After the public campaign in 2006 we decided that we didn't want to take that to carry on any more.<ref name="subsidised">{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/board-Bristol-s-subsidised-train-service/story-11269610-detail/story.html|title=On board Bristol's subsidised train service|date=3 January 2009|access-date=16 July 2012|work=This is Bristol}}</ref></blockquote> | <blockquote>Before we put real effort into the Severn Beach line it was really the sacrificial lamb for other services. So if we needed a spare train, we would pull one off the line and cancel it, which was why punctuality and reliability was so poor. After the public campaign in 2006 we decided that we didn't want to take that to carry on any more.<ref name="subsidised">{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/board-Bristol-s-subsidised-train-service/story-11269610-detail/story.html|title=On board Bristol's subsidised train service|date=3 January 2009|access-date=16 July 2012|work=This is Bristol}}</ref></blockquote> | ||
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Protesters would chant "The Severn Beach is a mighty fine line; Clean and friendly and sometimes on time."<ref name="insideout"/> | Protesters would chant "The Severn Beach is a mighty fine line; Clean and friendly and sometimes on time."<ref name="insideout"/> | ||
The Wessex franchise was amalgamated with the Great Western franchise into the ] from 2006, and responsibility passed to ], rebranded in 2015 as Great Western Railway.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.theironroad.net/Operator/Train-Operating-Companies/Wessex-Trains/|title=Wessex Trains |work=The Iron Road: Railway Photography by Scott Borthwick|access-date=29 September 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/4523592.stm|title=FirstGroup wins rail franchises|date=13 December 2005|access-date=27 April 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref><ref name="bids">{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-13351368|title=First Great Western bids for longer rail franchise deal|work=]|publisher=]|date=11 May 2011|access-date=27 April 2012}}</ref> A 1-hour minimum service requirement was written into the new franchise agreement.<ref name="difference"/><ref name="fgwgwr">{{cite news|url=http://railnews.co.uk/news/2015/09/21-the-great-western-railway-is.html|title=The Great Western Railway is back in business|date=21 September 2015|access-date=21 September 2015|work=Railnews}}</ref> In 2007, the council agreed to subsidise a service of at least one train every 45mins in each direction along the line,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/bristol/6990899.stm|title=Beach rail service to be revamped|date=12 September 2007|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> unanimously agreeing to pay £450,000 per annum to fund extra services from May 2008 for three years, which resulted in a 60% increase in passenger numbers along the line,<ref name="difference">{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/FRIENDS-MAKING-RAIL-DIFFERENCE/story-11231595-detail/story.html|title=Friends of Suburban Bristol Railways making rail difference|work=This is Bristol|date=25 September 2010|access-date=14 April 2012}}</ref><ref name="picnic">{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Campaigners-picnic-marks-rail-launch/story-11273781-detail/story.html|title=Campaigners' picnic marks rail launch|work=This is Bristol|date=17 July 2010|access-date=14 April 2012}}</ref> and a 25% year-on-year increase between June 2009 and June 2010.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Campaigners-quick-railway-action/story-11297976-detail/story.html|title=Campaigners call for quick railway action|work=This is Bristol|date=15 September 2010|access-date=14 April 2012}}</ref> Sunday services to Severn Beach were restored in 2010,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Sunday-service-puts-smiles-faces-rail-enthusiasts/story-11245243-detail/story.html|title=Sunday service puts smiles on faces of rail enthusiasts|date=24 May 2010|access-date=16 July 2012|work=This is Bristol}}</ref> funded by ] Council.<ref name="ITT"/> The line was designated a community rail service in 2008.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/bristol/7326180.stm|title=Community engagement in rail line|date=2 April 2009|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> | The Wessex franchise was amalgamated with the Great Western franchise into the ] from 2006, and responsibility passed to ], rebranded in 2015 as Great Western Railway.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.theironroad.net/Operator/Train-Operating-Companies/Wessex-Trains/|title=Wessex Trains |work=The Iron Road: Railway Photography by Scott Borthwick|access-date=29 September 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/4523592.stm|title=FirstGroup wins rail franchises|date=13 December 2005|access-date=27 April 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref><ref name="bids">{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-13351368|title=First Great Western bids for longer rail franchise deal|work=]|publisher=]|date=11 May 2011|access-date=27 April 2012}}</ref> A 1-hour minimum service requirement was written into the new franchise agreement.<ref name="difference"/><ref name="fgwgwr">{{cite news|url=http://railnews.co.uk/news/2015/09/21-the-great-western-railway-is.html|title=The Great Western Railway is back in business|date=21 September 2015|access-date=21 September 2015|work=Railnews}}</ref> In 2007, the council agreed to subsidise a service of at least one train every 45mins in each direction along the line,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/bristol/6990899.stm|title=Beach rail service to be revamped|date=12 September 2007|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> unanimously agreeing to pay £450,000 per annum to fund extra services from May 2008 for three years, which resulted in a 60% increase in passenger numbers along the line,<ref name="difference">{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/FRIENDS-MAKING-RAIL-DIFFERENCE/story-11231595-detail/story.html|title=Friends of Suburban Bristol Railways making rail difference|work=This is Bristol|date=25 September 2010|access-date=14 April 2012}}</ref><ref name="picnic">{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Campaigners-picnic-marks-rail-launch/story-11273781-detail/story.html|title=Campaigners' picnic marks rail launch|work=This is Bristol|date=17 July 2010|access-date=14 April 2012}}</ref> and a 25% year-on-year increase between June 2009 and June 2010.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Campaigners-quick-railway-action/story-11297976-detail/story.html|title=Campaigners call for quick railway action|work=This is Bristol|date=15 September 2010|access-date=14 April 2012}}</ref> Sunday services to Severn Beach were restored in 2010,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Sunday-service-puts-smiles-faces-rail-enthusiasts/story-11245243-detail/story.html|title=Sunday service puts smiles on faces of rail enthusiasts|date=24 May 2010|access-date=16 July 2012|work=This is Bristol}}</ref> funded by ] Council.<ref name="ITT"/> The line was designated a ] service in 2008, and is one of the lines covered by the ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/bristol/7326180.stm|title=Community engagement in rail line|date=2 April 2009|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> | ||
The council subsidy was halved in 2011 at the end of the three-year deal, with the council stating that with the large increase in passenger numbers, such a large subsidy was no longer necessary.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-12786340|title=Bristol's Severn Beach rail line subsidy is halved|date=19 March 2011|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> Local groups, including FOSBR and the ] claimed that services became less reliable following the cut, but First Great Western and the council stated that reliability problems were not due to the cut in subsidy, but instead due to breakdowns and track maintenance.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-15450340|title=Bristol's Severn Beach rail line 'less reliable'|date=25 October 2011|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> The council subsidies, for both increased services and Sunday services, were due to be replaced by national funding in 2015.<ref name="ITT"/> An additional evening service was agreed in February 2012, to start in September 2012, after protests about a 100-minute gap in the timetable.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk/About-Us/Media-centre/Additional-Services-for-Severn-Beach-Line-Announced|title=Additional services for Severn Beach Line announced |publisher=]|access-date=30 July 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Popular Severn Beach line gets new late service |url=http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/Popular-Severn-Beach-line-gets-new-late-service/story-16927636-detail/story.html|access-date=11 October 2015|work=Bristol Post|date=18 September 2012}}</ref> | The council subsidy was halved in 2011 at the end of the three-year deal, with the council stating that with the large increase in passenger numbers, such a large subsidy was no longer necessary.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-12786340|title=Bristol's Severn Beach rail line subsidy is halved|date=19 March 2011|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> Local groups, including FOSBR and the ] claimed that services became less reliable following the cut, but First Great Western and the council stated that reliability problems were not due to the cut in subsidy, but instead due to breakdowns and track maintenance.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-15450340|title=Bristol's Severn Beach rail line 'less reliable'|date=25 October 2011|access-date=16 July 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> The council subsidies, for both increased services and Sunday services, were due to be replaced by national funding in 2015.<ref name="ITT"/> An additional evening service was agreed in February 2012, to start in September 2012, after protests about a 100-minute gap in the timetable.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk/About-Us/Media-centre/Additional-Services-for-Severn-Beach-Line-Announced|title=Additional services for Severn Beach Line announced |publisher=]|access-date=30 July 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Popular Severn Beach line gets new late service |url=http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/Popular-Severn-Beach-line-gets-new-late-service/story-16927636-detail/story.html|access-date=11 October 2015|work=Bristol Post|date=18 September 2012}}</ref> | ||
⚫ | ] declined an option to continue the Greater Western franchise beyond 2013, citing a desire for a longer-term contract due to the ].<ref name="bids"/> The franchise was ],<ref name="ITT">{{cite press release |title=New Great Western franchise to deliver new express trains |url=http://www.dft.gov.uk/news/press-releases/dft-press-20120727a/ |publisher=] |date=27 July 2012 |access-date=29 July 2012}}</ref><ref name="Rail694">{{cite magazine |last= Haigh |first= Philip |title= First leads a field of seven bidding for rail franchises |magazine=] |issue=694 |date=18 April 2012| pages=8–9}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2012/07/19-great-western-franchise-to-be.html|title=Great Western franchise to be extended|date=19 July 2012|access-date=19 July 2012|work=Railnews}}</ref> but the process was halted and later scrapped due to the fallout from the ].<ref name="scrapped">{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-21272542|title=Great Western London to south Wales rail contest scrapped|date=31 January 2013|access-date=31 January 2013|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> A two-year franchise extension until September 2015 was agreed in October 2013,<ref name="rnextend">{{cite news|url=http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2013/10/03-first-celebrates-lastminute-great-western.html|title=First celebrates last-minute Great Western deal|work=Railnews|date=3 October 2013|access-date=4 October 2013}}</ref><ref name="bbcextend">{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24378053|title=First Great Western retains Wales and west rail franchise|work=]|publisher=]|date=3 October 2013|access-date=4 October 2013}}</ref> and subsequently extended until March 2019.<ref name="bbcextend2">{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-29565156|title=First Great Western offered new franchise deal|date=10 October 2014|access-date=10 October 2014|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref><ref name="guardianextend2">{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2014/oct/10/firstgroup-great-western-contract-extension-rail|title=FirstGroup wins Great Western contract extension|date=10 October 2014|access-date=10 October 2014|work=]}}</ref><ref name="rnextend2">{{cite news|url=http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2014/10/10-updated-franchise-schedule-signals-gw.html|title=Updated franchise schedule signals GW extension|date=10 October 2014|access-date=10 October 2014|work=Railnews}}</ref> | ||
== Future == | |||
⚫ | ] declined an option to continue the Greater Western franchise beyond 2013, citing a desire for a longer-term contract due to the ].<ref name="bids"/> The franchise was ],<ref name="Rail694">{{cite |
||
With the coming upgrade to the Great Western Main Line, the main line from London to Bristol was due to be electrified by 2016;<ref name="vision">{{cite web|url=http://www.networkrail.co.uk/uploadedFiles/networkrailcouk/Contents/Improvements/The_Great_Western/WesternVision.pdf|title=Modernising the Great Western|publisher=]|access-date=9 June 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130413065743/http://www.networkrail.co.uk/uploadedFiles/networkrailcouk/Contents/Improvements/The_Great_Western/WesternVision.pdf|archive-date=13 April 2013}}</ref> however, delays and cost overruns led to removal of Temple Meads from the programme.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-37908735|title=Great Western electrification: Intercity line work 'deferred'|date=8 November 2016|work=BBC News|access-date=28 June 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref> The electrification was not planned to extend beyond the main lines, so the Severn Beach line |
With the coming upgrade to the Great Western Main Line, the main line from London to Bristol was due to be electrified by 2016;<ref name="vision">{{cite web|url=http://www.networkrail.co.uk/uploadedFiles/networkrailcouk/Contents/Improvements/The_Great_Western/WesternVision.pdf|title=Modernising the Great Western|publisher=]|access-date=9 June 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130413065743/http://www.networkrail.co.uk/uploadedFiles/networkrailcouk/Contents/Improvements/The_Great_Western/WesternVision.pdf|archive-date=13 April 2013}}</ref> however, delays and cost overruns led to removal of Temple Meads from the programme.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-37908735|title=Great Western electrification: Intercity line work 'deferred'|date=8 November 2016|work=BBC News|access-date=28 June 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref> The electrification was not planned to extend beyond the main lines, so the Severn Beach line continues to be served by diesel trains.<ref name="Bristol to London">{{cite news |url= http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Bristol-London-line-electrified/story-11312089-detail/story.html |title=Bristol to London line to be electrified |work=This is Bristol |date=23 July 2009 |access-date=5 April 2012}}</ref> ], ] for ], questioned whether electrification could continue to {{rws|Clifton Down}}. ] ] replied that it would have to be looked at in the future.<ref name="benefits">{{cite news |url= http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Rail-benefits-just-mainline/story-11304651-detail/story.html |title=Benefits of Bristol to London high-speed rail link 'must go beyond just mainline'|date=3 March 2011 |access-date=5 April 2012 |work=This is Bristol }}</ref> ] (FOSBR) supports the electrification of the entire Severn Beach line.<ref name="FoSBR11">{{cite web |url= http://fosbr.org.uk/files/newsletter/11autumn.pdf |title=FoSBR Newsletter |issue=78 |publisher= ] |date=Autumn 2011 |access-date=9 April 2012}}</ref> | ||
Improved services along the line are called for as part of the ] scheme, a rail transport plan which aims to enhance transport capacity in the Bristol area.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.westofengland.org/media/98508/item%2004%20greater%20bristol%20metro%2013%20march%202009.pdf |title=Item 04: Greater Bristol Metro |first=James |last=White |publisher= West of England Partnership |date=13 March 2009 |access-date=28 December 2011}}</ref><ref name="campaign">{{cite news |url= http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Campaign-trains-Bristol-Temple-Meads-half-hour/story-14446079-detail/story.html |title=Campaign for trains from Bristol Temple Meads every half-hour |work=This is Bristol |date=17 January 2012 |access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref> There is an aspiration for half-hourly services, however due to the large sections of single-track and the congested main line from Temple Meads, such frequency is not currently feasible.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Transport-Minister-hears-calls-better-Bristol-train-service/story-11271683-detail/story.html|title=Transport Minister hears calls for better Bristol train service|work=This is Bristol|date=17 October 2009|access-date=14 April 2012}}</ref> However, it is expected that with the four-tracking of ], including the Severn Beach line between Temple Meads and Narroways Hill Junction, that there will be sufficient capacity to allow half-hourly services.<ref name="green">{{cite news|url= http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Green-light-long-awaited-rail-improvements/story-16547255-detail/story.html|title= Green light for long-awaited rail improvements|date=17 July 2012|access-date=18 July 2012|work=]}}</ref> The Invitation to Tender for the |
Improved services along the line are called for as part of the ] scheme, a rail transport plan which aims to enhance transport capacity in the Bristol area.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.westofengland.org/media/98508/item%2004%20greater%20bristol%20metro%2013%20march%202009.pdf |title=Item 04: Greater Bristol Metro |first=James |last=White |publisher= West of England Partnership |date=13 March 2009 |access-date=28 December 2011}}</ref><ref name="campaign">{{cite news |url= http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Campaign-trains-Bristol-Temple-Meads-half-hour/story-14446079-detail/story.html |title=Campaign for trains from Bristol Temple Meads every half-hour |work=This is Bristol |date=17 January 2012 |access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref> There is an aspiration for half-hourly services, however due to the large sections of single-track and the congested main line from Temple Meads, such frequency is not currently feasible.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Transport-Minister-hears-calls-better-Bristol-train-service/story-11271683-detail/story.html|title=Transport Minister hears calls for better Bristol train service|work=This is Bristol|date=17 October 2009|access-date=14 April 2012}}</ref> However, it is expected that with the four-tracking of ], including the Severn Beach line between Temple Meads and Narroways Hill Junction, that there will be sufficient capacity to allow half-hourly services.<ref name="green">{{cite news|url= http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Green-light-long-awaited-rail-improvements/story-16547255-detail/story.html|title= Green light for long-awaited rail improvements|date=17 July 2012|access-date=18 July 2012|work=]}}</ref> The Invitation to Tender for the Greater Western franchise asked bidders to include costs for two trains per hour each direction on the Severn Beach line, one between Severn Beach and {{rws|Portishead}}, the other between Severn Beach and {{rws|Bath Spa}}, both calling at all stations. These services are to run from December 2017, operating 18 hours a day Monday-Saturday and 9 hours a day on Sundays.<ref name="priced">{{cite magazine |last= Haigh |first= Philip |title= Great Western priced options |magazine=] |issue=702 |date=8 August 2012| page=9}}</ref> | ||
The metro plan also calls for the reopening of the ], which could allow a service from Temple Meads to {{rws|Bristol Parkway}} via the Severn Beach line.<ref name="ourcase">{{cite web|url=http://fosbr.org.uk/ourcase|title=Our Case|publisher=]|access-date=15 April 2012}}</ref> The metro scheme was given the go-ahead in July 2012 as part of the City Deal, whereby local councils would be given greater control over money by the government, |
The metro plan also calls for the reopening of the ], which could allow a service from Temple Meads to {{rws|Bristol Parkway}} via the Severn Beach line.<ref name="ourcase">{{cite web|url=http://fosbr.org.uk/ourcase|title=Our Case|publisher=]|access-date=15 April 2012}}</ref> The metro scheme was given the go-ahead in July 2012 as part of the City Deal, whereby local councils would be given greater control over money by the government, but it is as yet unclear which elements will be implemented.<ref name="metro">{{cite news|author=Ribbeck, Michael|work=]|date=6 July 2012|access-date=6 July 2012|title=£100 million Bristol Metro train network by 2016|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/100-million-Bristol-Metro-train-network-2016/story-16492523-detail/story.html}}</ref> FOSBR and other local groups lodged concerns with the Department for Transport that the reopening of the Henbury Loop was not included in the ITT for the new Greater Western franchise.<ref name="concerns">{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-19270112|title=Great Western Rail franchise concerns raised|work=]|publisher=]|date=16 August 2012|access-date=16 August 2012}}</ref> A one-off service, operated by ], ran on the line on 27 July 2013.<ref name="BBCNews27July13">{{cite web|title=Bristol Henbury Loop train runs again after 50 years|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-23465043|work=]|date=27 July 2013|access-date=27 July 2013}}</ref> | ||
The |
The ] was opened in August 2023 between {{rws|Shirehampton}} and {{rws|Avonmouth}} to serve the ].<ref name="opening">{{cite news |date=26 July 2023 |title=Bristol's new train station at Portway Park and Ride confirms opening date |work=] |publisher=] |url=https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/bristols-new-train-station-portway-8631625}}</ref> The new station plan was included in the Bristol Metro proposal, and for some years the project had the support of the FOSBR and the Bristol branch of the ].<ref>{{cite web|author=Bristol Evening Post|author-link=Bristol Evening Post|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/news/Railway-station-built-Portway-park-ride/article-610200-detail/article.html|title=Railway station could be built at Portway park and ride|work=Evening Post|date=13 January 2009|access-date=14 April 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100109133326/http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/news/Railway-station-built-Portway-park-ride/article-610200-detail/article.html|archive-date=9 January 2010}}</ref><ref name="distortion">{{cite web|url=http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Council-leader-s-claim-distortion-facts/story-13034792-detail/story.html|title=Council leader's claim is a distortion of the facts|work=This is Bristol|date=29 July 2011|access-date=14 April 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20121209110925/http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Council-leader-s-claim-distortion-facts/story-13034792-detail/story.html|archive-date=9 December 2012}}</ref> | ||
== Passenger volume == | == Passenger volume == | ||
Below are the passenger usage statistics from years starting April 2002 to April |
Below are the passenger usage statistics from years starting April 2002 to April 2022. Comparing 2002 with later years has shown a general increase on the line in usage. The most recent figures have been attributed to an improved service.<ref name=sta>{{cite web|title =Station Usage|work =Rail Statistics|publisher =Office of Rail Regulation| url=http://www.rail-reg.gov.uk/server/show/nav.1529|access-date = 2014-08-24}}</ref> The high usage at ] is due in part to its proximity to ] (though that closed in September 2022) and a major shopping area. | ||
Comparing over a full decade from April 2012 to April 2002, on the main line, Lawrence Hill and Stapleton Road have increased 130% and 82% respectively. On the branch line, the stations with the biggest changes were Severn Beach, St Andrews Road and Clifton Down with 363%, 228% and 178% respectively. The lowest increase was at Shirehampton with only 35%. Montpelier, Redland, Sea Mills and Avonmouth have increased by 103%, 89%, 68% and 144% respectively. | Comparing over a full decade from April 2012 to April 2002, on the main line, Lawrence Hill and Stapleton Road have increased 130% and 82% respectively. On the branch line, the stations with the biggest changes were Severn Beach, St Andrews Road and Clifton Down with 363%, 228% and 178% respectively. The lowest increase was at Shirehampton with only 35%. Montpelier, Redland, Sea Mills and Avonmouth have increased by 103%, 89%, 68% and 144% respectively. | ||
Line 126: | Line 131: | ||
The annual change from the year starting April 2011 to the year starting April 2012 varies from an increase of 63% at St Andrews Road through to a decrease of 2% at Redland. During this year, Redland was the only station to see a decrease, with the average change for all stations on the line being an increase of 11%.<ref name=sta/> | The annual change from the year starting April 2011 to the year starting April 2012 varies from an increase of 63% at St Andrews Road through to a decrease of 2% at Redland. During this year, Redland was the only station to see a decrease, with the average change for all stations on the line being an increase of 11%.<ref name=sta/> | ||
{{UKsta-u| | {{UKsta-u| | ||
{{UKsta-u A|stn=Lawrence Hill|u1=54,180|u2=46,508|u3=55,865|u4=68,371|u5=55,730|u6=67,338|u7=74,876|u8=93,600|u9=102,960|u10=124,878|u11=136,316|u12=150,774|u13=157,912|u14=170,084|u18=66,852|u19=152,906}} | {{UKsta-u A|stn=Lawrence Hill|u1=54,180|u2=46,508|u3=55,865|u4=68,371|u5=55,730|u6=67,338|u7=74,876|u8=93,600|u9=102,960|u10=124,878|u11=136,316|u12=150,774|u13=157,912|u14=170,084|u15=151,625|u16=148,606|u17=190,118|u18=66,852|u19=152,906|u20=209,022}} | ||
{{UKsta-u A|stn=Stapleton Road|u1=77,201|u2=73,202|u3=86,997|u4=98,446|u5=72,182|u6=103,576|u7=111,532|u8=123,084|u9=129,356|u10=140,390|u11=157,294|u12=178,114 |u13=179,872|u14=183,780|u18=65,722|u19=147,770}} | {{UKsta-u A|stn=Stapleton Road|u1=77,201|u2=73,202|u3=86,997|u4=98,446|u5=72,182|u6=103,576|u7=111,532|u8=123,084|u9=129,356|u10=140,390|u11=157,294|u12=178,114 |u13=179,872|u14=183,780|u15=179,780|u16=168,674|u17=205,224|u18=65,722|u19=147,770|u20=211,718}} | ||
{{UKsta-u A|stn=Montpelier|u1=62,005|u2=65,108|u3=73,573|u4=76,969|u5=60,629|u6=84,834|u7=96,114|u8=111,628|u9=122,222|u10=126,316|u11=121,294|u12=130,560 |u13=122,146|u14=111,540|u18=42,438|u19=91,758}} | {{UKsta-u A|stn=Montpelier|u1=62,005|u2=65,108|u3=73,573|u4=76,969|u5=60,629|u6=84,834|u7=96,114|u8=111,628|u9=122,222|u10=126,316|u11=121,294|u12=130,560 |u13=122,146|u14=111,540|u15=102,004|u16=94,684|u17=129,556|u18=42,438|u19=91,758|u20=169,540}} | ||
{{UKsta-u A|stn=Redland|u1=50,293|u2=50,063|u3=55,529|u4=66,852|u5=61,394|u6=86,234|u7=86,426|u8=92,966|u9=96,904|u10=94,984|u11=93,176 |u12=105,610|u13=99,732|u14=94,454|u18=33,332|u19=83,576}} | {{UKsta-u A|stn=Redland|u1=50,293|u2=50,063|u3=55,529|u4=66,852|u5=61,394|u6=86,234|u7=86,426|u8=92,966|u9=96,904|u10=94,984|u11=93,176 |u12=105,610|u13=99,732|u14=94,454|u15=88,876|u16=88,338|u17=120,642|u18=33,332|u19=83,576|u20=158,136}} | ||
{{UKsta-u A|stn=Clifton Down|u1=187,558|u2=141,838|u3=153,027|u4=180,656|u5=204,397|u6=281,876|u7=361,828|u8=433,088|u9=471,010|u10=522,010|u11=573,770|u12=619,766|u13=672,386|u14=764,192|u18=168,394|u19=400,730}} | {{UKsta-u A|stn=Clifton Down|u1=187,558|u2=141,838|u3=153,027|u4=180,656|u5=204,397|u6=281,876|u7=361,828|u8=433,088|u9=471,010|u10=522,010|u11=573,770|u12=619,766|u13=672,386|u14=764,192|u15=692,122|u16=628,888|u17=727,774|u18=168,394|u19=400,730|u20=608,640}} | ||
{{UKsta-u A|stn=Sea Mills|u1=34,649|u2=34,113|u3=36,411|u4=40,786|u5=33,222|u6=36,358|u7=41,680|u8=49,082|u9=51,998|u10=58,310|u11=58,106|u12=64,512|u13=61,696|u14=62,162|u18=13,108|u19=36,408}} | {{UKsta-u A|stn=Sea Mills|u1=34,649|u2=34,113|u3=36,411|u4=40,786|u5=33,222|u6=36,358|u7=41,680|u8=49,082|u9=51,998|u10=58,310|u11=58,106|u12=64,512|u13=61,696|u14=62,162|u15=54,484|u16=52,630|u17=58,204|u18=13,108|u19=36,408|u20=62,422}} | ||
{{UKsta-u A|stn=Shirehampton|u1=37,563|u2=29,645|u3=31,539|u4=38,493|u5=30,893|u6=34,292|u7=35,758|u8=42,566|u9=43,482|u10=50,654|u11=51,542|u12=52,480|u13=56,756|u14=55,762|u18=17,454|u19=42,264}} | {{UKsta-u A|stn=Shirehampton|u1=37,563|u2=29,645|u3=31,539|u4=38,493|u5=30,893|u6=34,292|u7=35,758|u8=42,566|u9=43,482|u10=50,654|u11=51,542|u12=52,480|u13=56,756|u14=55,762|u15=48,700|u16=47,234|u17=55,518|u18=17,454|u19=42,264|u20=67,124}} | ||
{{UKsta-u A|stn=Portway Park and Ride|u1={{n/a|not opened}}|u2={{n/a|not opened}}|u3={{n/a|not opened}}|u4={{n/a|not opened}}|u5={{n/a|not opened}}|u6={{n/a|not opened}}|u7={{n/a|not opened}}|u8={{n/a|not opened}}|u9={{n/a|not opened}}|u10={{n/a|not opened}}|u11={{n/a|not opened}}|u12={{n/a|not opened}}|u13={{n/a|not opened}}|u14={{n/a|not opened}}|u15={{n/a|not opened}}|u16={{n/a|not opened}}|u17={{n/a|not opened}}|u18={{n/a|not opened}}|u19={{n/a|not opened}}|u20={{n/a|not opened}}}} | |||
⚫ | {{UKsta-u A|stn= |
||
{{UKsta-u A|stn= |
{{UKsta-u A|stn=Avonmouth|u1=40,089|u2=33,815|u3=43,365|u4=47,834|u5=44,468|u6=61,948|u7=68,448|u8=83,674|u9=88,642|u10=97,880|u11=111,440 |u12=119,924|u13=129,860 |u14=144,110|u15=123,932|u16=107,752|u17=127,142|u18=46,076|u19=88,332|u20=109,936}} | ||
{{UKsta-u A|stn= |
{{UKsta-u A|stn=St Andrews Road|u1=3,021|u2=4,969|u3=8,008|u4=5,518|u5=3,183|u6=3,582|u7=3,942|u8=4,328|u9=6,072|u10=9,910|u11=13,376|u12=11,184|u13=7,374 |u14=6,522|u15=5,516|u16=4,724|u17=5,728|u18=4,910|u19=7,164|u20=17,322}} | ||
⚫ | {{UKsta-u A|stn=Severn Beach|u1=36,074|u2=29,295|u3=37,088|u4=38,202|u5=54,034|u6=74,712|u7=88,504|u8=113,480|u9=141,714|u10=167,078|u11=195,824|u12=224,658|u13=260,784 |u14=310,818|u15=292,044|u16=251,994|u17=301,154|u18=98,726|u19=180,444|u20=228,566}} | ||
}} | }} | ||
Whilst not based on the same methodology, the Severnside Community Rail Partnership carry out a passenger count on a particular day every June and the 2014 count had an increase in passenger usage of 16% over the 2013 count, indicating that the high growth on this line seen in previous years continues.<ref>{{cite web|title =Success on the Severn Beach Line|work =Media Release|publisher =Severnside Community Rail Partnership| url=http://fosbr.org.uk/files/20140725_scrp_press_release.pdf|access-date = 2014-08-24}}</ref> | Whilst not based on the same methodology, the ] carry out a passenger count on a particular day every June and the 2014 count had an increase in passenger usage of 16% over the 2013 count, indicating that the high growth on this line seen in previous years continues.<ref>{{cite web|title =Success on the Severn Beach Line|work =Media Release|publisher =Severnside Community Rail Partnership| url=http://fosbr.org.uk/files/20140725_scrp_press_release.pdf|access-date = 2014-08-24}}</ref> | ||
== See also == | == See also == |
Latest revision as of 10:44, 23 June 2024
Railway in Bristol and Gloucestershire, England
Severn Beach line | |||
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First Great Western 150233 crosses the River Trym near Sea Mills on its way to Avonmouth. | |||
Overview | |||
Status | Operational | ||
Owner | Network Rail | ||
Locale | Bristol South Gloucestershire | ||
Termini | |||
Stations | 12 | ||
Service | |||
Type | Commuter rail | ||
System | National Rail | ||
Operator(s) | Great Western Railway | ||
Depot(s) | St Philip's Marsh T&RSMD | ||
Rolling stock | Class 158 Express Sprinter Class 165 Turbo Class 166 Turbo | ||
Ridership | 1.25 million (2016) | ||
History | |||
Opened | 1840 (Temple Meads to Bristol West Jn) 1863 (Bristol West Jn to Narroways Hill Jn) 1875 (Narroways Hill Jn to Clifton Down) 1877 (Clifton Down Tunnel) 1900 (Avonmouth to Pilning) 2023 (Portway Park & Ride station) | ||
Technical | |||
Number of tracks | Part four-track, part double, part single | ||
Track gauge | 1,435 mm (4 ft 8+1⁄2 in) | ||
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The Severn Beach line is a local railway line in Bristol and Gloucestershire, England, which runs from Bristol Temple Meads to Severn Beach, and used to extend to Pilning. The first sections of the line were opened in 1865 as part of the Bristol Port Railway and Pier; the section through Bristol was opened in 1875 as the Clifton Extension Railway.
The line has faced several threats of closure over the years, and has been reduced to single track in many places. In the 21st century it has experienced a surge in passenger numbers, with a 90% increase in the years 2007–2011. All services along the line are operated by Great Western Railway, generally two trains per hour in each direction between Temple Meads and Avonmouth, calling at all stations, with one train per hour extended to Severn Beach. The line carries little freight traffic, with most of the heavy freight traffic to Avonmouth Docks being routed via the Henbury Loop Line through Filton. The line was highlighted by Thomas Cook as one of the scenic lines of Europe.
Route
From Bristol Temple Meads, the line heads east, diverging from the Great Western Main Line, Wessex Main Line and Heart of Wessex Line at Bristol East Junction. The line curves to the north, passing under the A4320 and then joining with a chord from the Great Western Main Line at Dr Day's Junction. At this point there are four tracks, but in the past this narrowed to two before Lawrence Hill. Four tracks were restored as part of the Great Western route improvements. Continuing north, the line passes under the old Midland Railway Bristol to Gloucester Line, passes through Stapleton Road station, then diverges west from the Cross Country Route at Narroways Hill Junction. The line from here is single track, passing through woodland and circling the St Werburghs area, then passing under the B4052 (Ashley Hill) before reaching Montpelier. The line then passes over the A38 Cheltenham Road on a viaduct known as "The Arches", before reaching Redland and continuing along a straight cutting through Cotham before reaching Clifton Down. This is the line's main passing point, as it is one of the few remaining places with double track.
The line then enters the mile-long Clifton Down Tunnel, reappearing in the Avon Gorge. It follows the Avon, passing through Sea Mills before heading inland to Shirehampton and Portway Park & Ride, under the M5 Avonmouth Bridge and through an industrial estate before reaching Avonmouth. Beyond Avonmouth, the line passes through a small residential area before reaching Avonmouth Docks. A freight yard is to the east of the line here, used for coal trains. St Andrews Road is within the yard, and to the north the Henbury Loop Line diverges to the east. The Severn Beach line continues north along the bank of the River Severn to the terminus at Severn Beach.
Beyond Severn Beach, the line used to continue north through the town and further along the bank of the Severn, meeting the Bristol and South Wales Union Railway's line near New Passage Pier. It then joined with the South Wales Main Line at Pilning.
The line was listed among Thomas Cook's most favoured attractions for its scenic route along the River Avon and River Severn.
Services
Services along the line are operated by Great Western Railway, mainly using diesel Class 166 Turbo units. Until mid-2017, the line had been operated by Class 150 Sprinter units, occasionally supplemented by Class 153 Super Sprinter and Class 158 Express Sprinter units. Until 2012, Class 143 Pacer units were a regular sight, but these were moved south to work in Devon following a cascade of Class 150/1 units from London Midland and London Overground.
Monday to Friday, two trains per hour run from Bristol Temple Meads to Avonmouth, with one extended to St Andrew's Road and Severn Beach, giving a service at Clifton Down of one train approximately every 30 minutes in each direction. Services start alternately from Bristol and Weston-super-Mare. There is a similar level of service on Saturdays. Sunday sees a roughly hourly service to and from Bristol, with all daytime services extended to Severn Beach.
Clifton Down is the line's main passing point, so trains to Avonmouth usually arrive at the same time as trains to Bristol Temple Meads. Most trains call at all stations. The typical journey time from Temple Meads to Avonmouth is 28 minutes, and 37 minutes to Severn Beach.
All stations on the line are in Travel Zone A (Bristol City) apart from Severn Beach which is in Zone C.
History
The Bristol Port Railway and Pier
Main article: Bristol Port Railway and PierBristol sits on the River Avon, with its docks several miles inland. By the 19th century, ships had grown to such a size that navigating the Avon was not possible any more, and so ships would have to dock at the head of the river at Avonmouth instead. The Bristol Port Railway and Pier company (BPRP) was founded in 1862 with the intent to build a single-track standard gauge railway the 5.75 miles (9.25 km) from Avonmouth to the city centre alongside the Avon. The railway's act of parliament was passed on 17 July 1862, and the railway opened on 6 March 1865, running from a terminus called Clifton in the Avon Gorge.
As built, the railway was isolated from the rest of the national network, having not been intended for anything more than local traffic, so a connection to the main line railways was needed in order to develop Avonmouth as a port. However, due to the position of Clifton station and the large amount of developed land in the Hotwells area, an extension towards Bristol Temple Meads, the city's main station, would have been prohibitively expensive. Instead, a link was proposed from the BPRP at Sneyd Park, running under Clifton Down and through the suburbs to connect to the main lines of the Midland and Bristol and South Wales Union railways. The connection was authorised in 1867, but the BPRP was in financial difficulties, and so unable to complete the line. It entered into negotiations with the Midland and Great Western Railways (the latter now the owner of the Bristol and South Wales Union Railway).
Clifton Extension Railway
Main article: Clifton Extension RailwayThe Clifton Extension Railway initially ran from Clifton Down to Narroways Hill Junction with what is now the Cross Country Route north through Bristol, then part of the Great Western Railway; and over a viaduct from Narroways Hill to the Midland Railway's Bristol to Gloucester line near Fishponds. The line was managed by the Clifton Extension Railway Joint Committee, but in 1894 responsibility was passed to the Great Western & Midland Railways Joint Committee. Services began to Clifton Down on 1 October 1874.
The initial service provided by the Midland Railway was between Clifton Down, Fishponds and Mangotsfield, where passengers could change for services to Bath, Birmingham and other Midland destinations. The Great Western provided services from Clifton Down to Bristol Temple Meads, the city's major station, where passengers could change for trains to London, Exeter and Wales, among others. The Great Western also provided occasional through services to Weston-super-Mare. There were a total of 23 trains in each direction between the two companies Monday-Saturday. On Sundays, there was no Midland service, but seven Great Western trains. The fare to Temple Meads was 6d first-class and 3d third-class.
The Clifton Down Tunnel, the final link to the Bristol Port Railway and Pier, was opened in 1877, initially allowing freight trains to reach Avonmouth Docks. It was not until 1885 that it was cleared for passenger use, which allowed services to Avonmouth via Sea Mills and Shirehampton. There was a trial Midland service between Bristol St Philip's and Avonmouth in September 1885, but this was ended after a month. In 1886, the daily Great Western service was six trains each way between Avonmouth and Temple Meads, 24 trains from Clifton Down to Temple Meads and 26 the other direction. The Midland provided 12 services from Clifton Down to Fishponds, and 11 back.
There was not initially a station at Redland, but there was local support, with several petitions submitted to the line's Joint Railway Committee. The first was received in October 1885, but was rejected due to the estimated cost of £3,410 to provide the station. A second petition was rejected eighteen months later. The Bristol Chamber of Commerce petitioned for a station in 1892, but the Committee again rejected the request, stating that estimated traffic levels would not justify the expense. It took until 1896 until a revised plan was accepted by the committee. The station finally opened on 12 April 1897.
In 1910, Clifton Down saw 17 Great Western services from Avonmouth to Temple Meads and 15 the other way, a further 20 trains each day operating between Clifton and Temple Meads, and 13 Midland trains each way between Clifton and Fishponds or Mangotsfield. Midland services were suspended from 1 January 1917 to 15 May 1919 due to the First World War. The Hotwells section of the Bristol Port Railway and Pier closed in 1922, so to compensate, an additional six trains were provided from Clifton Down to Avonmouth, and four back.
In 1923, grouping resulted in the Midland Railway being absorbed into the London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS), and the line continued in a joint arrangement between the Great Western and the LMS. From 1924, many trains to Avonmouth were extended to Severn Beach, a growing seaside resort, and some on to Pilning, then back to Temple Meads via Patchway. The Second World War saw the end of services to Fishponds and Mangotsfield, the last operating on 31 March 1941. By 1947, just before the start of the British Rail era, there were 33 services each direction between Avonmouth and Temple Meads, and 18 on Sundays. Some trains made circular trips to and from Temple Meads via Clifton Down and Henbury or Pilning.
British Rail
When the railways were nationalised in 1948, the Severn Beach line came under the aegis of the Western Region of British Railways. Passenger numbers however dropped sharply in 1961 as the result of a fare increase, and so in 1962 a new reduced timetable was enacted, which lost more passengers, and saw the withdrawal of a special schoolchildren's service. A year later in 1963, the Beeching report suggested that all services along the line be withdrawn. Following meetings with staff, it was decided to keep the line open to Severn Beach, but to close the section to Pilning, and also end services via Henbury. These services duly ended, but the line was still threatened, and on 10 February 1967 it was announced that all services between Stapleton Road and Severn Beach would be discontinued. An enquiry followed, and in June that year the decision was reversed, on the condition that tickets be issued on the trains. Thus, on 17 July 1967, all stations along the line, other than Temple Meads, had their staff withdrawn. The decrease of costs allowed a reduction of ticket prices, but the line was still under threat until in June 1969 it was decided that the line's closure would result in significant hardship, and so a grant was allocated to ensure continued services. Most of the line was reduced to single track in late 1970, leaving Clifton Down as one of the few passing places.
In 1971 the weekday service was 20 trains in each direction, 19 calling at all stations between Bristol Temple Meads and Severn Beach and 1 train that terminated at St Andrews Road.
On 20 October 1981, the Severn Beach line saw one of the first uses of a railbus on passenger services, when British Rail Engineering Limited Railbus RB003 operated the 10:08 service from Bristol Temple Meads. The first railbus concept, LEV1, would begin operations on the line less than a week later. Later model Class 143 Pacer railbuses would be a regular sight on the line until 2012.
British Rail was split into business-led sectors in the 1980s, at which time operations passed to Regional Railways. At this time, all trains ran to Severn Beach, but the service pattern was irregular. The state of the line was brought up in Parliament in 1990 by MP for Bristol North West Michael Stern, who asked why British Rail was not willing to publicise the line and protect the frequency of services. Cecil Parkinson MP, then-Secretary of State for Transport, replied that the line was using "out-of-date, worn-out rolling stock" due to late deliveries from manufacturers, and that British Rail would not encourage people to use it until there was a better service. In 1995, an hourly timetable was introduced for peak times, but services terminated at Avonmouth so that a single Sprinter unit could work the service. There was a better service on Saturdays as more rolling stock was available, but there was no Sunday service. Talk arose again of the line being closed completely. Local tourism expert Bernard Lane described the line's state as:
... the line the railway wished was not there. It was the line that got bus substitution whenever they were short of trains or queues, when a rugby match in Cardiff needed a special. It has a problem in that the route is slow and not very direct; for years it was invisible, short of marketing and lacking a regular interval timetable.
Post-privatisation
When the railway was privatised in 1997, local services were franchised to Wales & West, which was succeeded by Wessex Trains in 2001.
21st century
Following action by Friends of Severn Beach Railway (FOSBR, later renamed Friends of Suburban Bristol Railways) and a string of protests, services had increased to 10 per day in each direction by 2005, with Bristol City Council paying a subsidy of £138,000 per annum to fund services. A new subsidy agreement had been reached in 2003, following a threat that the end of subsidy would see services along the line halved. However, even with the subsidy, the line still suffered to keep the rest of the network running. Mike Holmes, station manager for most of the line's stations, told the Bristol Evening Post that:
Before we put real effort into the Severn Beach line it was really the sacrificial lamb for other services. So if we needed a spare train, we would pull one off the line and cancel it, which was why punctuality and reliability was so poor. After the public campaign in 2006 we decided that we didn't want to take that to carry on any more.
Protesters would chant "The Severn Beach is a mighty fine line; Clean and friendly and sometimes on time."
The Wessex franchise was amalgamated with the Great Western franchise into the Greater Western franchise from 2006, and responsibility passed to First Great Western, rebranded in 2015 as Great Western Railway. A 1-hour minimum service requirement was written into the new franchise agreement. In 2007, the council agreed to subsidise a service of at least one train every 45mins in each direction along the line, unanimously agreeing to pay £450,000 per annum to fund extra services from May 2008 for three years, which resulted in a 60% increase in passenger numbers along the line, and a 25% year-on-year increase between June 2009 and June 2010. Sunday services to Severn Beach were restored in 2010, funded by South Gloucestershire Council. The line was designated a community rail service in 2008, and is one of the lines covered by the Severnside Community Rail Partnership.
The council subsidy was halved in 2011 at the end of the three-year deal, with the council stating that with the large increase in passenger numbers, such a large subsidy was no longer necessary. Local groups, including FOSBR and the Green Party claimed that services became less reliable following the cut, but First Great Western and the council stated that reliability problems were not due to the cut in subsidy, but instead due to breakdowns and track maintenance. The council subsidies, for both increased services and Sunday services, were due to be replaced by national funding in 2015. An additional evening service was agreed in February 2012, to start in September 2012, after protests about a 100-minute gap in the timetable.
First Great Western declined an option to continue the Greater Western franchise beyond 2013, citing a desire for a longer-term contract due to the impending upgrade to the Great Western Main Line. The franchise was put out to tender, but the process was halted and later scrapped due to the fallout from the collapse of the InterCity West Coast franchise competition. A two-year franchise extension until September 2015 was agreed in October 2013, and subsequently extended until March 2019.
With the coming upgrade to the Great Western Main Line, the main line from London to Bristol was due to be electrified by 2016; however, delays and cost overruns led to removal of Temple Meads from the programme. The electrification was not planned to extend beyond the main lines, so the Severn Beach line continues to be served by diesel trains. Stephen Williams, MP for Bristol West, questioned whether electrification could continue to Clifton Down. Secretary of State for Transport Philip Hammond replied that it would have to be looked at in the future. Friends of Suburban Bristol Railways (FOSBR) supports the electrification of the entire Severn Beach line.
Improved services along the line are called for as part of the Greater Bristol Metro scheme, a rail transport plan which aims to enhance transport capacity in the Bristol area. There is an aspiration for half-hourly services, however due to the large sections of single-track and the congested main line from Temple Meads, such frequency is not currently feasible. However, it is expected that with the four-tracking of Filton Bank, including the Severn Beach line between Temple Meads and Narroways Hill Junction, that there will be sufficient capacity to allow half-hourly services. The Invitation to Tender for the Greater Western franchise asked bidders to include costs for two trains per hour each direction on the Severn Beach line, one between Severn Beach and Portishead, the other between Severn Beach and Bath Spa, both calling at all stations. These services are to run from December 2017, operating 18 hours a day Monday-Saturday and 9 hours a day on Sundays.
The metro plan also calls for the reopening of the Henbury Loop Line, which could allow a service from Temple Meads to Bristol Parkway via the Severn Beach line. The metro scheme was given the go-ahead in July 2012 as part of the City Deal, whereby local councils would be given greater control over money by the government, but it is as yet unclear which elements will be implemented. FOSBR and other local groups lodged concerns with the Department for Transport that the reopening of the Henbury Loop was not included in the ITT for the new Greater Western franchise. A one-off service, operated by First Great Western, ran on the line on 27 July 2013.
The Portway Park and Ride railway station was opened in August 2023 between Shirehampton and Avonmouth to serve the A4 Portway Park & Ride scheme. The new station plan was included in the Bristol Metro proposal, and for some years the project had the support of the FOSBR and the Bristol branch of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers.
Passenger volume
Below are the passenger usage statistics from years starting April 2002 to April 2022. Comparing 2002 with later years has shown a general increase on the line in usage. The most recent figures have been attributed to an improved service. The high usage at Clifton Down is due in part to its proximity to Bristol Zoo (though that closed in September 2022) and a major shopping area.
Comparing over a full decade from April 2012 to April 2002, on the main line, Lawrence Hill and Stapleton Road have increased 130% and 82% respectively. On the branch line, the stations with the biggest changes were Severn Beach, St Andrews Road and Clifton Down with 363%, 228% and 178% respectively. The lowest increase was at Shirehampton with only 35%. Montpelier, Redland, Sea Mills and Avonmouth have increased by 103%, 89%, 68% and 144% respectively.
The annual change from the year starting April 2011 to the year starting April 2012 varies from an increase of 63% at St Andrews Road through to a decrease of 2% at Redland. During this year, Redland was the only station to see a decrease, with the average change for all stations on the line being an increase of 11%.
Station usage | ||||||||||||||||||||
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Station name | 2002–03 | 2004–05 | 2005–06 | 2006–07 | 2007–08 | 2008–09 | 2009–10 | 2010–11 | 2011–12 | 2012–13 | 2013–14 | 2014–15 | 2015–16 | 2016–17 | 2017–18 | 2018–19 | 2019–20 | 2020–21 | 2021–22 | 2022–23 |
Lawrence Hill | 54,180 | 46,508 | 55,865 | 68,371 | 55,730 | 67,338 | 74,876 | 93,600 | 102,960 | 124,878 | 136,316 | 150,774 | 157,912 | 170,084 | 151,625 | 148,606 | 190,118 | 66,852 | 152,906 | 209,022 |
Stapleton Road | 77,201 | 73,202 | 86,997 | 98,446 | 72,182 | 103,576 | 111,532 | 123,084 | 129,356 | 140,390 | 157,294 | 178,114 | 179,872 | 183,780 | 179,780 | 168,674 | 205,224 | 65,722 | 147,770 | 211,718 |
Montpelier | 62,005 | 65,108 | 73,573 | 76,969 | 60,629 | 84,834 | 96,114 | 111,628 | 122,222 | 126,316 | 121,294 | 130,560 | 122,146 | 111,540 | 102,004 | 94,684 | 129,556 | 42,438 | 91,758 | 169,540 |
Redland | 50,293 | 50,063 | 55,529 | 66,852 | 61,394 | 86,234 | 86,426 | 92,966 | 96,904 | 94,984 | 93,176 | 105,610 | 99,732 | 94,454 | 88,876 | 88,338 | 120,642 | 33,332 | 83,576 | 158,136 |
Clifton Down | 187,558 | 141,838 | 153,027 | 180,656 | 204,397 | 281,876 | 361,828 | 433,088 | 471,010 | 522,010 | 573,770 | 619,766 | 672,386 | 764,192 | 692,122 | 628,888 | 727,774 | 168,394 | 400,730 | 608,640 |
Sea Mills | 34,649 | 34,113 | 36,411 | 40,786 | 33,222 | 36,358 | 41,680 | 49,082 | 51,998 | 58,310 | 58,106 | 64,512 | 61,696 | 62,162 | 54,484 | 52,630 | 58,204 | 13,108 | 36,408 | 62,422 |
Shirehampton | 37,563 | 29,645 | 31,539 | 38,493 | 30,893 | 34,292 | 35,758 | 42,566 | 43,482 | 50,654 | 51,542 | 52,480 | 56,756 | 55,762 | 48,700 | 47,234 | 55,518 | 17,454 | 42,264 | 67,124 |
Portway Park and Ride | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened | not opened |
Avonmouth | 40,089 | 33,815 | 43,365 | 47,834 | 44,468 | 61,948 | 68,448 | 83,674 | 88,642 | 97,880 | 111,440 | 119,924 | 129,860 | 144,110 | 123,932 | 107,752 | 127,142 | 46,076 | 88,332 | 109,936 |
St Andrews Road | 3,021 | 4,969 | 8,008 | 5,518 | 3,183 | 3,582 | 3,942 | 4,328 | 6,072 | 9,910 | 13,376 | 11,184 | 7,374 | 6,522 | 5,516 | 4,724 | 5,728 | 4,910 | 7,164 | 17,322 |
Severn Beach | 36,074 | 29,295 | 37,088 | 38,202 | 54,034 | 74,712 | 88,504 | 113,480 | 141,714 | 167,078 | 195,824 | 224,658 | 260,784 | 310,818 | 292,044 | 251,994 | 301,154 | 98,726 | 180,444 | 228,566 |
The annual passenger usage is based on sales of tickets in stated financial years from Office of Rail and Road estimates of station usage. The statistics are for passengers arriving and departing from each station and cover twelve-month periods that start in April. Methodology may vary year on year. Usage from the periods 2019-20 and especially 2020-21 onwards have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic |
Whilst not based on the same methodology, the Severnside Community Rail Partnership carry out a passenger count on a particular day every June and the 2014 count had an increase in passenger usage of 16% over the 2013 count, indicating that the high growth on this line seen in previous years continues.
See also
References
- FOSBR. "FOSBR - Our case 2017". fosbr.org.uk. Retrieved 22 April 2018.
- "The New Adlestrop Railway Atlas - historical UK railway map". systemed.net. Retrieved 22 April 2018.
- "Track and route mileage, permissible line speeds". Network Rail. Network Rail. n.d. Archived from the original on 18 January 2016.
- "Severn Beach Line - News". Archived from the original on 25 August 2013. Retrieved 7 September 2012.
- ^ "BBC Inside Out – Bristol's Severn Beach Railway Line". BBC. 20 September 2004. Retrieved 28 July 2012.
- ^ Baker, S.K. (2010). Rail Atlas of Great Britain and Ireland (12 ed.). Ian Allan. ISBN 978-0-86093-632-9.
- ^ OS Landranger Map 172 – Bristol & Bath. Southampton: Ordnance Survey. 2008. ISBN 978-0-319-22914-9.
- ^ Deaves, Phil. "Engineers' Line References: CNX Clifton Extension Line". Retrieved 13 March 2024.
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- ^ Salveson, Paul (June 2012). "Severn Beach: Not your typical branch line!". Today's Railways UK. No. 126. pp. 42–47.
- ^ Miles, Tony (December 2010). "LOROL Class 150s all with FGW". Modern Railways. p. 90.
- "Train times: Bristol Temple Meads and Weston-super-Mare to Avonmouth and Severn Beach" (PDF). Great Western Railway. Retrieved 13 December 2021.
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- ^ Maggs, Colin (1975). The Bristol Port Railway and Pier. The Oakwood Press.
- ^ Oakley, Mike (2006). Bristol Railway Stations 1840–2005. Redcliffe Press. ISBN 1-904537-54-5.
- ^ Maggs, Colin G (2008) . Rail Centres: Bristol (#21) (3rd ed.). Nottingham: Booklaw Publications. pp. 41–42. ISBN 978-1-901945-30-0.
- Butt, R. V. J. (October 1995). The Directory of Railway Stations: details every public and private passenger station, halt, platform and stopping place, past and present (1st ed.). Sparkford: Patrick Stephens Ltd. p. 196. ISBN 978-1-85260-508-7. OCLC 60251199. OL 11956311M.
- Western Region Passenger Services. London: British Railways Board. 1971.
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- "THE PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES – OFFICIAL REPORT IN THE THIRD SESSION OF THE FIFTIETH PARLIAMENT OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND, SIXTH SERIES VOLUME 178 SEVENTEENTH VOLUME OF SESSION 1989–90". Parliament of the United Kingdom. 22 October 1990. Retrieved 28 July 2012.
- ^ "Friends of Suburban Bristol Railways making rail difference". This is Bristol. 25 September 2010. Retrieved 14 April 2012.
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- "Wales and West". Wales & West. Archived from the original on 14 March 2012. Retrieved 9 June 2012.
- "Lobby to save Severn Beach line". BBC News. BBC. 27 February 2006. Retrieved 16 July 2012.
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- ^ "First Great Western bids for longer rail franchise deal". BBC News. BBC. 11 May 2011. Retrieved 27 April 2012.
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- "Campaigners' picnic marks rail launch". This is Bristol. 17 July 2010. Retrieved 14 April 2012.
- "Campaigners call for quick railway action". This is Bristol. 15 September 2010. Retrieved 14 April 2012.
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- ^ "New Great Western franchise to deliver new express trains" (Press release). Department for Transport. 27 July 2012. Retrieved 29 July 2012.
- "Community engagement in rail line". BBC News. BBC. 2 April 2009. Retrieved 16 July 2012.
- "Bristol's Severn Beach rail line subsidy is halved". BBC News. BBC. 19 March 2011. Retrieved 16 July 2012.
- "Bristol's Severn Beach rail line 'less reliable'". BBC News. BBC. 25 October 2011. Retrieved 16 July 2012.
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- "Great Western London to south Wales rail contest scrapped". BBC News. BBC. 31 January 2013. Retrieved 31 January 2013.
- "First celebrates last-minute Great Western deal". Railnews. 3 October 2013. Retrieved 4 October 2013.
- "First Great Western retains Wales and west rail franchise". BBC News. BBC. 3 October 2013. Retrieved 4 October 2013.
- "First Great Western offered new franchise deal". BBC News. BBC. 10 October 2014. Retrieved 10 October 2014.
- "FirstGroup wins Great Western contract extension". The Guardian. 10 October 2014. Retrieved 10 October 2014.
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- "Modernising the Great Western" (PDF). Network Rail. Archived from the original (PDF) on 13 April 2013. Retrieved 9 June 2012.
- "Great Western electrification: Intercity line work 'deferred'". BBC News. 8 November 2016. Retrieved 28 June 2017.
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- "FoSBR Newsletter" (PDF). Friends of Suburban Bristol Railways. Autumn 2011. Retrieved 9 April 2012.
- White, James (13 March 2009). "Item 04: Greater Bristol Metro" (PDF). West of England Partnership. Retrieved 28 December 2011.
- "Campaign for trains from Bristol Temple Meads every half-hour". This is Bristol. 17 January 2012. Retrieved 19 January 2012.
- "Transport Minister hears calls for better Bristol train service". This is Bristol. 17 October 2009. Retrieved 14 April 2012.
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- "Bristol's new train station at Portway Park and Ride confirms opening date". Bristol Post. Local World. 26 July 2023.
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- ^ "Station Usage". Rail Statistics. Office of Rail Regulation. Retrieved 24 August 2014.
- "Success on the Severn Beach Line" (PDF). Media Release. Severnside Community Rail Partnership. Retrieved 24 August 2014.
External links
- http://www.severnbeachline.org – Severnside Community Rail Partnership's website for the line
- http://www.fosbr.org.uk/ – Friends of Suburban Bristol Railways.
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51°29′05″N 2°40′23″W / 51.4848°N 2.6731°W / 51.4848; -2.6731
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