North Somerset MP celebrates Portishead Line approval after a 25-year campaign. Project to reconnect Portishead to Bristol Temple Meads.
The scheme was in doubt since last July. It was announced yesterday it would proceed, with new stations to be built in Portishead and Pill. Trains will run to Bristol Temple Meads station.
Sadik Al-Hassan is North Somerset’s Labour MP. He says the railway connects North Somerset to Bristol and that he is relieved after 25 years of campaigning, saying they achieved something people thought impossible.
He says the project was his top priority. His first act was presenting a public petition, which saved the project from cancellation. He is proud of everyone’s hard work and looks forward to construction starting this summer.
Al-Hassan became the first Labour MP for North Somerset after defeating Liam Fox after 32 years. He soon learned the railway was at risk when he read about potential cuts in a newspaper.
The new government found a large financial gap and announced cuts to various programs. This included the railway restoration program, which was funding the Portishead Line.
The government reviewed projects it was funding. Al-Hassan met with the Transport Secretary and told a rally he would fight, as he wanted the stations they deserved and were promised.
Al-Hassan also met with the Rail Minister, as did Metro Mayor Dan Norris. Leaders from local councils attended a meeting too as the government approved the scheme, but costs rose. The local authorities agreed to cover the extra cost.
North Somerset Council thanked everyone involved, including Mayor Dan Norris and MP Al-Hassan. Norris said this is a massive moment and that it is great for the environment.
Construction should begin this summer with the goal to have trains running in 2027. The project needs just over three miles of new track. The line to Pill is partially restored, but the track needs upgrades for passenger trains.