A NEW “vision for the future of transport” in the region, including a mass transit link to Bristol Airport, has been unveiled by Metro Mayor Helen Godwin.
The system would see trams or bendy-buses introduced in some places.
But in the Downend area the most immediate change is likely to be the arrival of electric buses on major routes.
The West of England Combined Authority run by the Metro Mayor has £752 million of funding available for better buses, more trains, and mass transit plans across Bristol, South Gloucestershire and B&NES, as well as North Somerset, which could join WECA if a proposal now out for consultation goes ahead.
A spokesperson for the mayor said more than 250 new electric buses would be on the region’s streets by the end of the year.
This will include in the Downend area: the Lawrence Hill bus depot, where the vehicles used on routes including the 48 and 49 are based, will be converted for electric buses later in the year.
But within five years an upgrade to routes between the city centre and Emersons Green, and along the ring road corridor, potentially including mass transit, could be introduced.
A public consultation on a new bus plan is expected to be launched during March.
Ms Godwin said: “We need a transport system that people can trust, wherever they live. Together, we can and must deliver the integrated transport system that people need and deserve.”
South Gloucestershire Council leader Maggie Tyrrell said: “With significant growth across South Gloucestershire, we need transport improvements that help communities and businesses thrive, connecting people to key services and workplaces.”
Details of the Transport Vision can be found online at tinyurl.com/yzu83kuh.