Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension

Update – May 2022

First Bus have been announced as the bus operators for the brand-new Cribbs Causeway to Bristol Parkway bus service.

The new Cribbs to Parkway ‘m4’ service, which will run along the Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension (CPME), will start operation in Spring 2023.

The new bus route will benefit communities in Stoke Gifford, Patchway and the forthcoming mixed-use Cribbs Patchway New Neighbourhood development on the former Filton Airfield.

The new Cribbs to Parkway bus route includes new bus lanes, cycle and pedestrian pathways, a new, larger bridge on Gipsy Patch Lane, and improvements to the San Andreas roundabout at Cribbs Causeway.

A number of bus stops along the route are also being upgraded to ‘metrobus standard’ including new bus shelters, iPoints, cycle hoops, fully accessible kerbs and CCTV to keep locals safe while travelling.

These improvements will benefit bus users and locals alike.

The West of England Combined Authority will be working with First Bus over the coming months to finalise details of the m4 service, with more information to be announced later in the year.

You can find more information about the announcement on the West of England website.

Update – August 2022

Gipsy Patch Lane will reopen to two-way traffic at 6am on Monday 8 August.

The road has been closed to traffic west of the railway bridge (the Rolls Royce side) for two weeks to allow resurfacing work to take place.

The resurfacing is the final stage of the main construction work for the Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension (CPME). Other work, such as the installation of iPoints and bus shelters and landscaping will be completed by the end of the year.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your patience during the work and we apologise for any disruption caused.

New signal-controlled junction

When the road reopens the junction between Titan Road, Gipsy Patch Lane and Rolls Royce’s Gate 5 access will become signal controlled.

Signals at this staggered junction were a requirement of the Horizon 38 site’s planning permission and they have been installed by the council’s Streetcare team on behalf of the Horizon 38 landowner.

The changes to the junction are not part of the CPME scheme, but to minimise disruption the work has been carried out at the same time.

Changes to the junction have also included the removal of the mini-roundabout, and the introduction of new pedestrian and cyclist crossings to make it easier and safer to get around on foot and by bike.

Update – July 2022

Gipsy Patch Lane resurfacing

Resurfacing work will be taking place along Gipsy Patch Lane, west of the railway bridge (the Rolls Royce side), this summer. The work will be carried out during the first two weeks of the school summer holidays. Carrying out the work during the school holidays, when traffic levels are reduced, will minimise disruption to traffic in the area.

This is the final stage of the main construction work for the CPME. Other work, such as the installation of iPoints and bus shelters and landscaping will be completed by the end of the year.

Resurfacing

The works will be carried out overnight, between 8pm and 6am, to minimise the disruption to local businesses during the daytime. Details of the traffic management can be found below.

This resurfacing will be like that carried out by our Streetcare team at Easter. It will be a significant phase of work and will involve the reconstruction of all the asphalt layers in the road, not simply the top layer, to make the road fit for purpose for years to come. More than 30 people will be involved in the operation each day, which is a combination of on-site workers, lorry drivers and those at the quarry mixing the materials.

More than 1,650 tonnes of material will be removed and during the asphalt operation we will be laying over 200 tonnes of material each day. There will be more than 170 lorry movements throughout the work.

Road closure

To carry out this work Gipsy Patch Lane will need to be closed to traffic in both directions between the entrance to Pegasus Park and the junction with Taurus Road 24 hours a day, from 8pm on Friday 22 July until 6am Monday 8 August. This will mean that during this two-week period the road will not reopen to traffic during the day.

Pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to use the shared use paths along Gipsy Patch Lane and access side junctions.

These dates and times may be subject to change.

We apologise for any disruption caused by these works.

Once this resurfacing is complete Gipsy Patch Lane will reopen to two-way traffic.

Diversion

There will be a signed diversion route in place throughout the closure.

Traffic needing to travel between Stoke Gifford, Filton and Patchway will need to use Bradley Stoke Way and the A38, and vice versa.

Access to businesses

Throughout the works access to local businesses will be maintained.

Access into Pegasus Park will be via Gipsy Patch Lane east of the railway bridge (the residential side). Motorists exiting Pegasus Park will only be able to turn left.

To access businesses on the Horizon 38 industrial estate drivers will need to use Taurus Road, via the A38.

To access Rolls Royce Gate 5, between 8pm on Friday 22 July and 6am on Wednesday 27 July, motorists will need to travel along Gipsy Patch Lane via the Hatchet Road roundabout, east of the railway bridge.

To access Rolls Royce Gate 5, between 6am on Wednesday 27 July and 6am on Monday 8 August, motorists will need to travel along Gipsy Patch Lane via the A38, west of the railway bridge.

Update – June 2022

Maintenance work

Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed overnight on Monday 20 June to allow for maintenance work to be carried out to manhole covers. The closure will be in place between 8pm on Monday 20 June and 6am on Tuesday 21 June. During this work the road will be closed to all vehicles between the entrance to Pegasus Park and the junction with Little Stoke Lane. Pedestrians and cyclists will still have access. Diversions will be in place.

Resurfacing

Gipsy Patch Lane, between its junction with Little Stoke Lane and the Hatchet Road roundabout, will be resurfaced over two weekends, Friday 24 June to Monday 27 June and Friday 1 July to Monday 4 July.

The eastbound carriageway (towards the Hatchet Road roundabout) will be resurfaced on the first weekend between 8pm Friday 24 June and 6am Monday 27 June. During this time the eastbound carriageway of Gipsy Patch Lane, between the Little Stoke Lane junction and the Hatchet Road roundabout, will be closed to traffic. The junction with Little Stoke Lane will also be closed. Traffic exiting Bush Avenue will only be able to turn left. Diversions will be in place.

The westbound carriageway (towards the A38) will be resurfaced between 8pm Friday 1 July and 6am Monday 4 July. During this time the westbound carriageway of Gipsy Patch Lane, between the Hatchet Road roundabout and the Little Stoke Lane junction, will be closed to traffic. The junction with Bush Avenue will also be closed. Traffic needing access to Bush Avenue and Smithcourt Drive will need to use the service road next to The Stokers pub. Diversions will be in place.

The Hatchet Road roundabout will remain open throughout the works but will have lane restrictions in place.

The resurfacing work will be carried out round the clock, day and night. It is likely to cause some dust, noise and vibration but we will keep this to a minimum so far as is reasonably practicable. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this work and thank you for your patience.

Update – March 2022

Overnight closures are needed on Gipsy Patch Lane in preparation of the resurfacing work taking place over Easter.

Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed to all traffic between the junction of Little Stoke Lane and the entrance to Pegasus Park on the following dates:

• Friday 1 April 8pm to 6am
• Saturday 2 April 8pm to 6am

Gipsy Patch Lane will also need to be closed between its junction with the A38 and the entrance to Pegasus Park on Thursday 7 April 8pm to 6am.

These closures are needed to enable our Streetcare teams to change the temporary traffic management, relocate the temporary vehicle restraint barriers and carry out additional survey work along the road.

All side road junctions along Gipsy Patch Lane that fall within the closures will also need to be closed to traffic. This includes the junctions for Titan Road, Taurus Road, Station Road, Gifford Crescent, the service roads, Smithcourt Drive and Bush Avenue.

Signed diversion routes will be in place during the overnight closures.

Pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to use the shared use path along Gipsy Patch Lane and access the side junctions.

These dates and times may be subject to change.

We apologise for any disruption caused by these works.

Gipsy Patch Lane resurfacing and reopening two-way

Easter road closure

From 8pm on Friday 8 April until 6am Monday 25 April, Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed to all traffic between its junction with Little Stoke Lane and the entrance to Pegasus Park. This road closure is needed to enable resurfacing work to be carried out.

During the resurfacing work all side road junctions along Gipsy Patch Lane that fall within the closure will also need to be closed to traffic. This includes the junctions for Station Road, Gifford Crescent, the service roads, Smithcourt Drive and Bush Avenue.

Pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to use the shared use path along Gipsy Patch Lane and access the side junctions.

These dates and times may be subject to change.

We apologise for any disruption caused by these works.

Diversions and access

There will be signed diversion routes in place throughout the closure.

Traffic needing to travel between Stoke Gifford, Filton and Patchway will need to use Bradley Stoke Way and the A38, and vice versa.

The eastern access to Bush Avenue, nearest to Little Stoke Lane, will remain fully open to residents and patrons of the Stokers pub. Drivers are advised that the speed limit along Bush Avenue and Smithcourt Drive will be reduced to 20mph for the duration of the works.

Little Stoke Lane will also remain open. Vehicular access to the shops at Gifford Crescent will be via Kingsway.

Vehicular access to Station Road will be via Little Stoke Lane and Clay Lane. Please be aware that access to businesses to the southern end of Station Road is restricted by a footbridge with a height restriction of 4.2 metres.

Access into Pegasus Park will be via the A38 and Gipsy Patch Lane west of the railway bridge only.

Businesses at Station Road, Gifford Crescent, Pegasus Park and the Stokers Pub will remain open during the resurfacing.

Two-way reopening

From 6am on Monday 25 April Gipsy Patch Lane will reopen to two-way traffic. All side road junctions, including Titan Road, will also reopen to traffic from this date.

Road widening work will continue to be carried out on Gipsy Patch Lane west of the railway bridge (the Rolls Royce side) and to enable this work narrow lanes will be in place along this stretch of the carriageway.

Future works

Further resurfacing will be needed along Gipsy Patch Lane west of the railway once the road widening works are completed on this side. Resurfacing is also being planned for some local roads in the Stoke Gifford area.

This resurfacing is due to take place over the summer. We will notify you again when we have confirmed the dates for this work.

The junction for Station Road may also need to be closed again to traffic in the coming months to enable Network Rail to carry out work on the railway embankment. We will update the community when Network Rail confirm when this work will take place and the traffic management, they need to carry out this work.

The main construction work for the CPME is due to complete in September this year. Other work, such as the installation of iPoints and bus shelters and landscaping will be completed by the end of the year.

Update – January 2022

Weekend closure

Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed to traffic, between the service road junction, east of the railway bridge, and the Rolls Royce Gate 5, west of the railway bridge, between 8pm Saturday 29 January and 8pm Sunday 30 January.

This closure is needed to enable our Streetcare team to make changes to the temporary road layout and reopen some of the residential side-road junctions following substantial completion of certain phases of the works. Other works east and west of bridge will continue.

During the closure, the westbound one-way system will not be in operation and those needing to travel by car between Stoke Gifford and the Filton/Patchway area will need to use the diversion route via Winterbourne Road, Bradley Stoke Way and the A38, or vice versa. For those requiring access to Pegasus Park this will be via Gipsy Patch Lane west of the railway bridge where portable traffic signals will be in operation.

Pedestrian and cycling access will be maintained via the new shared use path.

From Monday 31 January, the junctions for Gifford Crescent, Station Road and the service road will be reopened to traffic. Vehicles will be able to turn left and right out of both junctions.

The westbound one-way system will remain in place but will be moved and will be in operation between the Station Road junction, east of the railway bridge, and the Rolls Royce Gate 5 junction, west of the railway bridge.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused by these works.

Station Road junction

The junction for Station Road may need to be closed again to traffic in the coming months to enable Network Rail to carry out work on the railway embankment. We will update the community when Network Rail confirm when this work will take place and the traffic management they need to carry out this work.

Update – November 2021

Sunday road closures 

Road widening work is currently taking place along Gipsy Patch Lane, east and west of the railway bridge, to make way for new bus lanes. To enable this work to continue, two Sunday road closures are needed along Gipsy Patch Lane.

Both closures are being carried out on a Sunday to limit the disruption caused to commuters and businesses operating in the area. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by these works.

First Sunday closure

On Sunday 21 November, between 8am and 8pm, Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed to traffic east of the railway bridge, between the Little Stoke Lane junction and the railway bridge. This is to enable the Council’s Streetcare team to make changes to the temporary road layout. The works will involve relocating the temporary road studs and concrete barrier east of the Stokers pub. These changes are being made to help reopen some of the residential side-road junctions following substantial completion of certain phases of the works. Other works east of bridge will continue.

During the closure, the westbound one-way system will not be in operation and those needing to travel by car between Stoke Gifford and the Filton/Patchway area will need to use the diversion route via Winterbourne Road, Bradley Stoke Way and the A38, or vice versa. For those requiring access to Pegasus Park this will be via Gipsy Patch Lane west of the railway bridge where portable traffic signals will be in operation.

Pedestrian and cycling access will be maintained via the new shared use path.

From Monday 22 November, the junctions for Smithcourt Drive and the service road leading to Bush Avenue on Gipsy Patch Lane will be reopened to traffic. Vehicles will be able to turn left and right out of both junctions.

The westbound one-way system will remain in place but will be moved and will be in operation between the service road leading to Bush Avenue, east of the railway bridge, and the Rolls Royce Gate 5 junction, west of the railway bridge.

The junctions for Station Road, Gifford Crescent, and the service road on the north side of the carriageway will remain closed to traffic whilst we continue to work in this area.

Second Sunday closure

On Sunday 28 November, between 8am and 8pm, Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed to traffic west of the railway bridge, between the railway bridge and the Rolls Royce Gate 5 junction. This is to enable the Council’s Streetcare team to make changes to the temporary road layout. The works will involve removing the temporary road studs and the concrete barrier west of the mini roundabout. These changes are being made following substantial completion of the works in this area. Other works west of bridge will continue.

During the closure, the westbound one-way system will not be in operation and those needing to travel by car between Stoke Gifford and the Filton/Patchway area will need to use the diversion route via Winterbourne Road, Bradley Stoke Way and the A38, or vice versa. For those requiring access to Pegasus Park this will continue to be via east of the railway bridge where there will be portable traffic signals in operation.

Pedestrian and cycling access will be maintained via the new shared use path.

Update – August 2021

Next phase of work

The next phase of work, due to start on Friday 27 August, will involve preparing Gipsy Patch Lane for the one-way westbound reopening in September. This work will include the installation of temporary road studs and a temporary vehicle restraint barrier. The purpose of the temporary barrier is to segregate public traffic from works traffic in order to keep everyone safe.

Work on the new road widening for east of bridge shall commence on Tuesday 31 August, with work west of bridge to start once the one-way system goes live in September.

The works so far as is reasonably practicable will be undertaken during daytime hours; however, night working is unavoidable between 8pm and 6am on Friday 27 August and Friday 3 September. These works will involve some background noise but only for a limited duration.

Traffic management

To enable this next phase of work, Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed to traffic in both directions from its junction with Little Stoke Lane through to the railway bridge from 8pm on Friday 27 August until the one-way system commences in September.

This will mean that all side roads along this stretch will be closed to traffic at their junction with Gipsy Patch Lane. This will include Station Road, Gifford Crescent, the service road, Smithcourt Drive and Bush Avenue. This will take effect from Friday 27 August until completion of the works in late 2022.

Vehicular and pedestrian access for residents and businesses will be maintained via diversion routes. The eastern access to Bush Avenue, nearest to Little Stoke Lane, will remain fully open to residents and patrons of the pub. Vehicular access to the shops at Gifford Crescent will be via Kingsway and vehicular access to Station Road will continue to be via Clay Lane to the north.

The Gipsy Patch Lane service road’s junction with Gifford Crescent, and Little Stoke Lane will remain open.

Pedestrian access under the bridge will also remain open and a temporary crossing facility shall be in place between the junctions of Gifford Crescent and Station Road whilst work to widen the road and reconstruct the existing crossing takes place.

Please note, these dates and times may be subject to change.

Westbound one-way opening

Gipsy Patch Lane is due to reopen to traffic in a westbound direction only (towards the A38) in September. Once a date is confirmed we will notify the community.

The one-way system will operate between Little Stoke Lane and the mini roundabout at Rolls Royce. Traffic will only be able to travel westbound between those points, towards Filton and the A38.

The existing signposted diversion route will remain in place for eastbound traffic via the A38, Bradley Stoke Way and Winterbourne Road.

The one-way system will be in place until the road widening works have been completed in late 2022.

Update – July 2021

We will shortly be able to reopen Gipsy Patch Lane in a westbound direction only (towards the A38) and this one-way system is planned to open in September.

You can view the one-way system here.

Key details include:

• The system will operate between Little Stoke Lane and the mini roundabout at Rolls Royce. Traffic will only be able to travel westbound between those points, towards Filton and the A38. The existing signposted diversion route will remain in place for eastbound traffic via the A38, Bradley Stoke Way and Winterbourne Road.
• Businesses at Pegasus Park will be accessible and remain open as usual, but traffic entering and exiting will need to follow the one-way system.  This means that the junction will be ‘right-in’ and ‘right-out’ only. At Horizon 38, Titan Road will be closed, so traffic will need to use Taurus Road.
• Businesses at Gifford Crescent and the Stokers Pub will also remain open for business as usual. Vehicular access to the shops at Gifford Crescent will be via Kingsway while cars accessing the Stokers Pub will do so from Bush Avenue (east).
• For safety reasons, the majority of side roads to the east (residential side) of the railway bridge that fall within the one-way system will need to be closed at their junctions with Gipsy Patch Lane. This will include Station Road, Gifford Crescent, the service road, Smithcourt Drive and Bush Avenue. Access for residents and businesses will be maintained via diversion routes.
• The Gipsy Patch Lane service road’s junction with Gifford Crescent will be open.  The eastern access to Bush Avenue, nearest to Little Stoke Lane, will remain fully open to residents and patrons of the pub. Little Stoke Lane will also remain open.

The one-way system will be in place until the road widening works have been completed in late 2022.

To help keep you informed and to explain more about the one-way system, we are holding a public drop-in event on Wednesday 4 August from 3pm to 7pm. This will be in the car park of the Stokers pub, Gipsy Patch Lane, Little Stoke, Bristol, BS34 8LU.  We would encourage people to walk or cycle to the event if possible, however if you need to drive, please park considerately.

Officers from the council will be available to answer your questions, along with representatives from Network Rail. Everyone is welcome to attend at any time during the drop-in session, and there is no need to book.

The event is outdoors and there will be a small, covered area.  If it rains the event will still go ahead. In light of the continuing Covid pandemic and rising cases we kindly request those attending to observe social distancing, and we are encouraging staff and visitors to wear face masks.

The information from the drop-in event is available to view here.

We are in the process of arranging a second drop-in event and will publicise further details when they are confirmed.

Update – June 2021

Utility diversion works are progressing well, with WPD having completed their diversion and the current Bristol Water diversion near Smithcourt Drive and Bush Avenue being on schedule. You may have noticed work taking place under the railway bridge. This is the relaying of a new water main and reinstating of utility diversions.

Road widening is needed on Gipsy Patch Lane further to the east and west of the railway bridge to enable the creation of a new bus lane. During these construction activities significant traffic management measures will be needed.

To enable these works to be carried out safely and as efficiently as possible a westbound one-way system needs to be installed along Gipsy Patch Lane, between the junction with Little Stoke Lane and the mini roundabout at Rolls Royce. This will mean that traffic will only be able to travel along this section of Gipsy Patch Lane towards Filton and the A38 junction.

Traffic needing to travel eastbound will need to use the existing diversion route via the A38, Bradley Stoke Way and Winterbourne Road. The diversion route will be fully signposted.

For safety reasons, side roads to the east (residential side) of the railway bridge that fall within the one-way system will need to be closed at their junction with Gipsy Patch Lane. This will include Station Road, Gifford Crescent, the service road, Smithcourt Drive and Bush Avenue. Access for residents and businesses will be maintained via diversion routes. The eastern access to Bush Avenue, nearest to Little Stoke Lane, will remain open to residents. Little Stoke Lane will also remain open.

Closing these side roads is considered the safest approach once the one-way system is installed to prevent drivers potentially turning the wrong way out of these junctions.

Access to Pegasus Park will be retained, but traffic entering and exiting will need to comply with the one-way system. Traffic exiting Titan Road will only be able to turn left.

We will write to local residents in the coming months when we have confirmed start dates for the road widening works and the installation of the one-way system.

Update – 25 June 2021

From 5 July, the straight stretch of Gifford Crescent off Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed until the road widening works are complete in 2022. Following the closure, the 12 bus service will not service the east or westbound stop at Bush Avenue nor the west and southbound stop at Kingsway Roundabout. The signposted diversion will be via Little Stoke Lane which is expected to remain in place until the Gipsy Patch Lane road widening is complete. Check www.travelwest.info for all the latest travel information.

At the same time, we will be carrying out highway works at the turning circle next to the Pegasus Park access to the west of the railway bridge. Access will not be affected but there will be additional traffic management in place.

A temporary wooden fence will be installed along the southern verge next to Bush Avenue and Smithcourt Drive this summer, providing a visual screen of the works area for residents and preventing the spread of noise and dust.

Following on from previous updates, ongoing utility diversion works are progressing well with Western Power Distribution having finished their diversion and the current Bristol Water works on schedule.

Update – 25 May 2021

Following on from the work carried out by WPD and as part of the plans to widen Gipsy Patch Lane to construct a new bus lane, Bristol Water will be diverting a major water pipe in the road outside 26 Gipsy Patch Lane to outside 34 Smithcourt Drive. This will involve digging a trench to lay the new pipe, which will be in the road and the shared cycle/footpath outside the Stokers pub. The works are due to take place for approximately eight weeks between 1st June and the end of July, with working hours from 8am to 5pm, proceeding east to west in stages.

During the works on Smithcourt Drive, parking will be limited to driveways due to limited space on the road. From the corner of Gipsy Patch Lane and Bush Avenue to the Stokers pub car park, a road closure will be required, however, access will be maintained for residents and patrons of the pub.

Update – 7 May 2021

To enable upcoming road widening work along Gipsy Patch Lane and to make sure we can plant as many replacement trees as possible, Western Power Distribution (WPD) will be diverting a major power cable from the junction of Gipsy Patch Lane and Bush Avenue to 24 Smithcourt Drive. This involves digging a trench to lay the new cable, which will be in the road where possible and the shared cycle/footpath outside the Stokers pub. The works are due to take place for approximately three weeks between 10th May and 1st June with working hours from 7:30am to 4:30pm, proceeding east to west.

WPD intends to maintain access to all driveways outside of working hours but there will be times during the day when access to some driveways will be limited. Contractors will knock on doors each day to inform residents who will be directly affected by the next day’s work. WPD will try to keep disruption to a minimum.

Bristol Water also need to carry out work in a similar location which is set to start in June. We will update the local community when there are confirmed dates and further information is available.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and we thank you for your ongoing patience.

Update – 28 April 2021

We are widening Gipsy Patch Lane in order to construct a new bus lane and as part of this we need to install a new drainage system. Drainage works will start on the north side of Gipsy Patch Lane to the east of the bridge on Tuesday 4th May. Temporary traffic lights will be in place, restricting the road to single-file traffic between the Stokers pub and the eastbound dual carriageway section.

Western Power Distribution (WPD) and Bristol Water also need to carry out work to divert essential underground services, we expect a May start with trenching along Bush Avenue and Smithcourt Drive. We will be in touch with directly affected properties shortly.

Update March 2023

Work to extend a retaining wall on the railway embankment next to the Station Road junction on Gipsy Patch Lane will complete by the end of March.

The work, which is being carried out by Network Rail and its contractor, will be completed as quickly and safely as possible.

We apologise for any ongoing disruption caused by this work.

The majority of the work will take place Monday to Friday during normal daytime hours. There will need to be some weekend working but Network Rail and its contractor will keep this to lighter operations to keep the noise levels to a minimum.

The closure of the Station Road junction and a small section of the bus lane on Gipsy Patch Lane will need to remain in place until the work is completed.

If you have any questions about this work call the Network Rail 24-hour helpline on 03457 11 41 41.

Update – 19 December 2022

Network Rail work

Network Rail and its contractors Balfour Beatty are currently carrying out work to extend a retaining wall on the railway embankment next to the Station Road junction on Gipsy Patch Lane.

Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, Network Rail has informed the council this work will need to continue into the new year.

Balfour Beatty will continue to work on site until Friday 23 December. Work will then pause over the Christmas period and restart on Tuesday 3 January.

The bus lane closure on Gipsy Patch Lane and the closure of the Station Road junction on Gipsy Patch Lane will need to remain in place over the Christmas period.

The shared use path on the north side of Gipsy Patch Lane near to and under the bridge also needs to remain closed, but the path on the south side is open to pedestrians and cyclists.

Motorists are reminded that the diversion for vehicles needing to access Station Road is via Clay Lane and Little Stoke Lane. Access to businesses to the southern end of Station Road is restricted by a footbridge with a height restriction of 4.2 metres.

We will continue to keep you updated on this work.

Any questions or issues you may have about this work can be raised via the Network Rail 24-hour helpline on 03457 11 41 41.

GWR rail replacement services

Over the Christmas period, Network Rail will be working in the Bristol Parkway area to renew sections of track on the main line between London and South Wales, so trains will not be able to stop at some stations in the area on some days.

This means that from Tuesday 27 to Saturday 31 December, rail replacement bus services are planned to run between Patchway Station and Bristol Parkway Station.  There will also be a follow up day of rail replacement buses on Sunday 8 January 2023. Due to the closure of the Station Road junction, these buses will route via Clay Lane.  GWR’s advice is to check times carefully before setting off to travel, and to allow plenty of time for your journey.

To enable the rail replacement bus service to operate to and from Patchway Station there will be a parking suspension along Clay Lane. This means on-street parking will be prohibited along the road between Tuesday 27 December and Sunday 31 December, and on Sunday 8 January.

Update – 11 November 2022

Network Rail work

Network Rail and its contractors Balfour Beatty are to carry out work to extend a retaining wall on the railway embankment next to the Station Road junction. The work includes some excavation.

Balfour Beatty are preparing the site for the work, including setting up welfare facilities, from Monday 14 November.

The work, which is expected to last six weeks, will be carried out between 8am and 5.30pm Monday to Friday, and between 8am and 4pm on Saturdays. Some work will need to be carried out on Sundays, but this will only happen on Sunday 27 November and Sunday 11 December, between 9.30am and 4pm.

These dates and timeframes may be subject to change, and we will keep you notified of any updates.

No construction work will be carried out overnight. However, Network Rail will be carrying out rail line possessions during this time. This work will not include the use of machinery.

Any questions or issues you may have about this work can be raised via the Network Rail 24-hour helpline on 03457 11 41 41.

Traffic management

To enable the work to take place a section of the bus lane along the north side of Gipsy Patch Lane (running west to east) needs to be closed, but general traffic lanes along Gipsy Patch Lane will remain open.

The shared use path on the north side of Gipsy Patch Lane near to and under the bridge also needs to be closed, but the path on the south side will remain open to pedestrians and cyclists.

The bus lane and shared use path will be closed from Monday 14 November until the work is complete.

From Monday 21 November the junction for Station Road on Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed to traffic. This junction closure will need to remain in place for the duration of the work.

A diversion route for vehicles, via Clay Lane and Little Stoke Lane, will be in operation and will be fully signposted throughout the junction closure. Please be aware that access to businesses to the southern end of Station Road is restricted by a footbridge with a height restriction of 4.2 metres.

Pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to access Station Road via Gipsy Patch Lane during the closure.

All businesses on and near Station Road, including Patchway Train Station and the Sort It Centre, will be open as normal.

Update – Wednesday 1 December 2021

Sunday closure

On Sunday 5 December, between 9am and 5pm, Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed to vehicles and pedestrians. This closure is to enable Network Rail and its contractor to install the valve chambers for the new pumping station.

During the closure, the westbound one-way system along Gipsy Patch Lane will not be in operation and those needing to travel by car between Stoke Gifford and the Filton/Patchway area will need to use the diversion route via Winterbourne Road, Bradley Stoke Way and the A38, or vice versa.

For those requiring access to Pegasus Park this will be via Gipsy Patch Lane west of the railway bridge where portable traffic signals will be in operation.

Pedestrian and cycling diversion routes are available.

• Diversion route option 1 – Filton Avenue
  This route utilises the A38 and Filton Avenue and is especially suitable for cyclists who use the A4174 Ring Route cycle path.
• Diversion route option 2 – Little Stoke Lane
  This route utilises Little Stoke Lane and the A38 and is predominantly on road.
• Diversion route option 3 – Little Stoke Park
  Little Stoke Park can be accessed from Gipsy Patch Lane and contains shared use paths leading to a footbridge to the north of Patchway Station. A Public Right of Way can then be followed to the east of the railway to the A38.
• Diversion route option 4 – For Patchway Train Station
  This route is for pedestrians and cyclists wanting to access Patchway Train Station and businesses along Station Road.

During the closure Network Rail will operate a shuttle service for pedestrians needing access either side of the bridge. This service will be free of charge and will operate for the duration of time the railway bridge is closed to pedestrians.

Surfacing work

In December, Network Rail and its contractor Alun Griffiths will be carrying out overnight work on Gipsy Patch Lane under the new railway bridge.

The work will involve surfacing the new southern carriageway and footpath. The work is due to take place overnight from Monday 13 December to Thursday 23 December, between the hours of 5.30pm and 2.30am on weeknights only. Please note these dates may be subject to change and we will keep the community updated.

The westbound one-way system along Gipsy Patch Lane will remain open during this work.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this work. Any questions or issues can be raised via the Network Rail 24-hour helpline on 03457 11 41 41.

Update – Wednesday 4 August 2021

Overnight work

In preparation for Gipsy Patch Lane opening one-way, highways construction work is needed along the north-side carriageway under the new railway bridge.

This work will take place overnight, between the hours of 5pm and 2.30am, from Tuesday 10 August to Friday 13 August inclusive.

Pedestrian access under the railway bridge will remain open during this work, as will access to Pegasus Park.

We apologise for any disruption this work may cause and thank you for your continued patience.

Update – Tuesday 30 March 2021

Network Rail and its contractor are currently carrying out works to lower the road below the new railway bridge, as well as installing an improved drainage system, including a new pumping station under the road.

There are national design standards that must be complied with whenever a new bridge is built which stipulate how much headroom is required under a new bridge. It is not possible to raise the bridge because of the railway line, so to comply with the standards for a new bridge, the only option is to lower the road.

Following ongoing surveys and investigations, a larger pumping station and drainage system than previously envisaged is now required to help future-proof this key stretch of road from flooding.

Due to this upgrade in the drainage system, Gipsy Patch Lane needs to remain closed to traffic at the railway bridge longer. As has been the case throughout the CPME, and given the scale of this major infrastructure project, dates can be subject to change. We sincerely apologise for this and for the ongoing disruption it may be causing for you.

Network Rail and its contractor recently applied for a renewed Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO), which will allow them to keep Gipsy Patch Lane closed to traffic at the railway bridge until mid-December 2021. However, it is hoped that the road will be able to reopen to some traffic sooner than this.

We are working closely with Network Rail and its contractor to understand if there is opportunity for a partial reopening of Gipsy Patch Lane one-way in the autumn, which will allow for some traffic under the bridge but maintain sufficient space for work to continue safely.

These traffic management arrangements will also need to be co-ordinated with the road widening works on Gipsy Patch Lane, which are due to commence either side of the railway bridge during the summer.

Access for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists will continue to remain open under the railway bridge.

These changes are not expected to cause any delay to the overall completion of the CPME project, which is programmed for winter 2022/2023.

Update – Wednesday 24 February 2021

Further piling work is due to take place this week at the railway bridge on Gipsy Patch Lane.

The piling work is needed as part of the construction of a retaining wall for the new railway bridge and carriageway below. The piling is only required on the east (residential) side of the new bridge.

The work is expected to begin on Wednesday 24 February and will last approximately one week. The work will take place during the daytime only, between the hours of 8am and 6pm, and on weekdays only. No piling work will be carried out at weekends.

Please note, these dates and timeframes may be subject to change.

Piling can be noisy, however, Network Rail, and its contractor, will work to minimise the disturbance and will put in a number of noise mitigation measures including sound barriers around the piling equipment.

Noise and vibration will be monitored throughout the work and adjustments will be made if necessary.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this work and thank you for your continued patience.

If you have any questions concerning the piling work, please contact the Network Rail 24-hour helpline on 03457 11 41 41.

Update – Friday 27 November 2020

Now the new bridge is in position Gipsy Patch Lane will need to remain closed to all road users to enable further works on the carriageway beneath the bridge. This work is to make way for the new bus lanes and shared use cycle and pedestrian pathways.

There are national design standards that must be complied with whenever a new bridge is built, which stipulate how much headroom is required under a new bridge. It is not possible to raise the bridge because of the railway line, so in order to comply with the standards for a new bridge, the only option is to lower the road.

Work will include:

• Demolition and excavation of the existing carriageway underneath the bridge
• Re-grading the junction with Station Road to tie-in with the new carriageway level
• Utility diversions underneath the new cycle and pedestrian pathways
• Installation of new surface water drainage system, including pumping station
• Installation of new street lighting
• Construction of new carriageway and pathways
• New traffic signs, road markings and landscaping/planting

This work will be carried out during the daytime, between the hours of 7.30am and 6pm, Monday to Friday. Network Rail, and its contractor, will work to minimise any disruption caused.

Any questions or issues about the work can be raised via the Network Rail 24-hour helpline on 03457 11 41 41.

We understand there continues to be great local interest in the CPME project but everyone should observe social distancing and follow current local and national guidelines. Therefore, we would kindly ask that you do not visit the construction site, including the railway bridge area, on Gipsy Patch Lane to watch work taking place or interact with the workforce.

Updates on the project and the work taking place will continue to be shared via the project’s Facebook page and via Twitter.

Gipsy Patch Lane closure

While Gipsy Patch Lane is closed to traffic the signed diversion route for motorists will remain via Bradley Stoke Way and the A38.

As part of CPME four bus stops along Gipsy Patch Lane will be upgraded to metrobus stops. The bus stops affected are:

• Bush Avenue/Smithcourt Drive bus stop, westbound
• Bush Avenue/Smithcourt Drive bus stop, eastbound
• Rolls Royce bus stop, eastbound
• Rolls Royce bus stop, westbound

The upgrades will include extending the bus stop platforms, new paving, replacing existing shelters with new metrobus shelters and the installation of metrobus iPoints and CCTV to monitor the stops. iPoints provide travel information and allow passengers to purchase tickets before they board and plan journeys.

The metrobus stops on the CPME route will be available for use by local bus services.

Update – May 2021

After completing initial work on the eastbound bus stop in April, initial work on the westbound stop has now finished. The next stage of work for both stops will be to install metrobus shelters, this is planned to take place during summer 2021. The installation of CCTV and iPoints will take place before the metrobus service commences in early 2023.

Update – 28 April 2021

Work on the bus stop upgrades on Gipsy Patch Lane near Little Stoke Lane has been progressing well. The initial work on the eastbound bus stop is now complete, with initial work on the westbound stop due to be finished in the first week of May. We are now working with partners to install new bus shelters. Check the TravelWest website before you travel as it is not yet confirmed if Stagecoach will continue to divert the number 12 service.

Upgrade work

The Bush Avenue bus stops located to the east of the railway bridge (the residential side), will be upgraded first. This work will begin in the week commencing Monday 8 March and is expected to last approximately eight weeks.

The initial phase of work will involve extending the bus stop platforms, laying the new paving and installing the electrical connections needed for the iPoints and CCTV.

The Rolls Royce bus stops will be upgraded later in the construction programme as part of works to the west of the railway bridge.

Traffic management

To enable the upgrades traffic management is needed along Gipsy Patch Lane.

For work to take place at the eastbound Bush Avenue bus stop, a lane closure will be required. This will reduce the eastbound carriageway on Gipsy Patch Lane to a single lane of traffic.

For work to take place at the westbound Bush Avenue bus stop, a lane closure will also be required. However, this means that the westbound carriageway on Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed to all traffic between its junction with Little Stoke Lane and just before its junction with Smithcourt Drive. No vehicles will be able to travel westbound along this stretch of Gipsy Patch Lane for the duration of these works.

Access to Bush Avenue and Smithcourt Drive will remain open and the pedestrian crossing on Gipsy Patch Lane will be maintained during the works.

A signed diversion route for westbound traffic will be available via Little Stoke Lane, Kingsway, and Gifford Crescent.

The lane closures will start on Monday 8 March and last approximately eight weeks. The closures will need to remain in place around the clock during the works.

These dates may be subject to change and we will continue to keep the community up to date.

Bus passengers

During the works, the two bus stops affected will be out of service and bus passengers will be directed to use alternative stops.

The number 12 bus service, operated by Stagecoach, will be diverted during the works. For passengers travelling on the number 12 bus service towards Severn Beach, the service will divert from Gipsy Patch Lane and travel via Little Stoke Lane and Kingsway before turning at the Kingsway roundabout, where it will resume its normal route.

The number 12 bus service towards Bristol Parkway railway station will not be diverted and will follow its normal route. However, the southbound Kingsway roundabout bus stop will be suspended and passengers should use the northbound Kingsway roundabout stop (next to the shops) for services in both directions.

iPoints and CCTV

The metrobus iPoints and the CCTV will not be installed at the bus stops until just before the new metrobus service begins in 2023.

We will write to those living next to bus stops nearer the time to explain how the CCTV will operate. In the meantime, if you have any questions regarding the CCTV, please email CommunitySafetyTeam@southglos.gov.uk.

Update – 25 June 2021

Some residents have raised concern regarding the impact of drainage works on the trees north of Gipsy Patch Lane. Whilst works are being carried out, we are taking great care to avoid damaging the trees.

We need to prune the trees as some are overhanging the road and pavement. The work will be carried out by professional tree surgeons who will ensure that the long term health of the trees is not damaged. This is likely to take place in August, lasting around a week with traffic management in place. Pruning of the trees west of the railway bridge opposite Rolls Royce is planned to take place at the same time.

De-vegetation work

Road widening is needed on Gipsy Patch Lane to enable the creation of a new bus lane, as part of the CPME. To make way for the construction of the bus lane a number of trees and hedgerows need to be removed along the road.

We need to remove 20 trees from the south side of Gipsy Patch Lane, to the east of the railway bridge (the residential side).  Shrubs and hedgerows will also need to be removed from the south side. No trees or vegetation are being removed from the north side.

A number of trees will also be removed from Gipsy Patch Lane to the west of the railway bridge at the Network Rail railway bridge compound site to enable construction to start on the new metrobus stop.

The tree removal and de-vegetation work is due to start in the week commencing Monday 25 January and will last until approximately Friday 5 February.  These dates could be subject to change.

To enable the de-vegetation work to be carried out safely there will be temporary traffic lights in operation. These will be in use during off-peak times only. It may also be necessary to stop traffic during some of the work to create additional space so crews can operate safely. There may also need to be signed diversions for pedestrians during the work.

Please note, that currently there are ongoing ground investigations being carried out along the verge of Gipsy Patch Lane, which  involve digging trial trenches.

Landscaping and replanting

The CPME project has made a commitment to plant as many new trees and shrubs as possible to mitigate for these losses and the project team have been working on landscaping proposals for Gipsy Patch Lane for when construction work is complete.

Last year, as part of our planning for the landscaping work, we dug a number of trial trenches along the verge of Gipsy Patch Lane east of the railway bridge. One of the things that affects where planting can occur is the location of underground utilities.  Although we have plans that show where utilities should be located, it is only when ground is dug that we can be sure of where they are.

The information gathered from the trial trenches has helped inform draft landscaping proposals for Gipsy Patch Lane on the east side of the railway bridge. These plans include proposals to plant 24 new trees along Gipsy Patch Lane – 20 on the south side and 4 on the north side.

The tree planting proposals include:

• 19 new Lime trees
• 2 Mountain Ash
• 3 native English Oaks in the new hedge line, to replace a mature Ash removed in September 2020, due to Ash die back.

The draft landscaping plan, which is available to view here, shows the confidence levels for each proposed tree based on our investigations undertaken up to October 2020.

The draft plan also shows where we propose to plant native hedges and ornamental shrubs, as well as areas for spring flowering bulbs and herbaceous planting.

Due to the high number of underground utilities, continuing investigations are required and further trial trenches will be dug following de-vegetation to verify assumptions. The planting plans may need to be adjusted during the construction phase to take account of any unforeseen issues, which could impact on the numbers and locations of new trees and plants that can be planted.

We are currently in the process of developing our landscaping proposals for Gipsy Patch Lane on the west side of the bridge. We will share these with the community when they are available.

In addition to the landscaping plans for Gipsy Patch Lane, the CPME project has already provided funding for 53 trees of various species to be planted at Winterbourne Road and Orpheus Avenue.  The trees were planted in 2020.

Update – June 2021

Work at the San Andreas roundabout is now complete. New traffic signals and toucan crossings are in place. A new road link at the roundabout is not yet operational. In the future, the link will provide a sustainable route into the Cribbs Patchway New Neighbourhood for metrobuses, cyclists, taxis, motorcycles, and emergency vehicles. Landscaping work, including tree planting, will occur at San Andreas during the rest of this year.

Update – 23 April 2021

Overnight closures

A final phase of work to complete at the San Andreas roundabout is the installing of high friction surfacing on the approaches to the roundabout to maximise safety.

We will be doing this over approximately six nights (8pm to 6am) between Monday 26 April and Friday 7 May inclusive. The work is highly weather dependent which is why we cannot confirm in advance which six nights in that two week period the works will take place.

We will need to close one arm of the roundabout at a time during those nights to do the surfacing. Signed diversion routes will be in operation.

The roundabout will remain open during the day and at weekends.

Due to the work being highly weather dependent, dates are subject to change and we will continue to update the community. We apologise for any disruption caused by this work.

Update – 19 March 2021

Overnight closures at the San Andreas roundabout have now finished.

The roundabout, next to the Mall at Cribbs Causeway, needed to be closed overnight for several weeks while resurfacing works were carried out.

Improvement works continue at the roundabout, as part of the Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension (CPME).  Work is scheduled to complete later in the spring.

Thank you for your continued patience.

Update – 3 February 2021

A final phase of work to complete at the San Andreas roundabout is resurfacing and road markings.

To enable this work the San Andreas roundabout, and its four approaches, will be closed to all traffic overnight, between 8pm and 6am, from Monday 22 February for approximately three weeks. The work will be carried out Monday to Friday only. The roundabout will remain open during the day and at weekends.

The work is highly weather dependent and dates are subject to change. We will continue to update the community. We apologise for any disruption caused by this work.

Signed diversion routes will be in operation.

Diversions:

• If you would normally access the roundabout westbound along Hayes Way towards Merlin Road, then you will need to go via A38 Gloucester Road, B4056, Pen Park Road, Knole Lane, A4018, Lysander Road and Merlin Road.
• If you would normally access westbound along Hayes Way towards Highwood Road, then you will need to go via A38 Gloucester Road, B4056, Pen Park Road, Knole Lane, A4018, Lysander Road, Highwood Lane, Jupiter Road and Highwood Road.
• If you would normally access eastbound along Merlin Road towards Hayes Way, then you will need to go via Lysander Road, A4108, Knole Lane, Pen Park Road, B4056 and A38 Gloucester Road.
• If you would normally access eastbound along Merlin Road towards Highwood Road, then you will need to go via Lysander Road, Highwood Lane, Jupiter Road and Highwood Road.
• If you would normally access southbound along Highwood Road towards Merlin Road, then you will need to go via Pegasus Road, Lysander Road and Merlin Road.
• If you would normally access southbound along Highwood Road towards Hayes Way, then you will need to go via Pegasus Road, Lysander Road, A4018, Knole Lane, Pen Park Road, A38 Gloucester Road and Hayes Way.

Access to Highwood Park

Access to and from Highwood Park will be maintained at all times. However, access will only be available from the direction of the Standing Stone roundabout. A contraflow system will be in place along Highwood Road.

Update – Thursday 10 December

A footpath, for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists only, has been reopened under the new railway bridge on Gipsy Patch Lane.

A free shuttle bus service that had been operating for pedestrians is no longer available.

The footpath is narrow and pedestrians are advised to take extra care should they need to use it. Anyone using the footpath should observe social distancing.

Cyclists are reminded that they must dismount and push their bikes through should they choose to use this footpath.

Alternative cycling diversions are available.

• Diversion route option 1 – Filton Avenue
  This route utilises the A38 and Filton Avenue and is especially suitable for cyclists who use the A4174 Ring Route cycle path.
• Diversion route option 2 – Little Stoke Lane
  This route utilises Little Stoke Lane and the A38 and is predominantly on road.
• Diversion route option 3 – Little Stoke Park
  Little Stoke Park can be accessed from Gipsy Patch Lane and contains shared use paths leading to a footbridge to the north of Patchway Station. A Public Right of Way can then be followed to the east of the railway to the A38.
• Diversion route option 4 – For Patchway Train Station
  This route is for pedestrians and cyclists wanting to access Patchway Train Station and businesses along Station Road.

The footpath under the bridge will remain open until further notice and we will continue to keep the community updated.

Gipsy Patch Lane and the junction with Station Road will remain closed to vehicles to enable Network Rail and its contractor to complete the highways work beneath the new bridge.

The reopened footpath is not for use by vehicles, including motorbikes. All motorists needing access must continue to use the signed diversion route via Bradley Stoke Way and the A38.

Update – Monday 2 November

Work to upgrade 2 bus stops on Hatchet Road to metrobus stops is progressing well.

An initial phase of upgrades to the north-bound bus stop, near the Sandringham Road/ Ratcliffe Drive roundabout, has been completed.

Work to this stop has included:

• Extending the platform
• New paving
• Installation of connections needed for the metrobus iPoint and CCTV

Work will now begin on upgrading the south-bound bus stop, outside the former Co-op store.

To enable this work the two-way temporary traffic lights will be moved along Hatchet Road. The temporary lights will continue to be used during off-peak periods only. Work to the south-bound bus stop is expected to last approximately 6 weeks. This may be subject to further change and we will continue to keep the community up to date.

During the works, the bus stop will be out of service and bus passengers will be directed to use alternative stops just a short walk along Hatchet Road.

The next stage of the upgrades will be to install new metrobus shelters at both bus stops. Due to the impact Covid-19 is having on national supply chains this work is now due to take place in the New Year.

As a temporary measure, we will be able to reuse the existing shelters on both the north and south-bound bus stops. Unfortunately, real-time information and lighting will not be available at these stops during this time.

Update – Wednesday 26 August

Hatchet Road

As part of CPME two bus stops along Hatchet Road will be upgraded to metrobus stops. The bus stops affected will be the north-bound stop near the Sandringham Road/ Ratcliffe Drive roundabout and the south-bound stop outside the former Co-op store.

The upgrades will include extending the bus stop platforms, new paving, replacing the existing shelters with new metrobus shelters and the installation of metrobus iPoints and CCTV to monitor the stops. iPoints provide travel information and allow passengers to purchase tickets before they board and plan journeys.

The new bus stops will be served by existing local bus services.

Work will begin on the upgrades on Monday 14 September and will last approximately 3 months. These dates may be subject to further change and we will continue to keep the community up to date.

The initial phase of work will involve extending the bus stop platforms, laying the new paving and installing the electrical connections needed for the iPoints and CCTV.

Traffic management

To enable the work to take place two-way temporary traffic lights will be in operation on Hatchet Road from Monday 14 September, for approximately 3 months. The temporary lights will be used during off-peak periods only.

During the works, the two bus stops affected will be out of service and bus passengers will be directed to use alternative stops just a short walk along Hatchet Road.

The alternative bus stops will be:

• For north-bound journeys passengers should use the bus stop on the opposite side of the road to the former Co-op store.
• For south-bound journeys passengers should use the bus stop near the Sandringham Road/ Ratcliffe Drive roundabout junction.

Alternative bus stops are also available further along Hatchet Road near to the Winterbourne Road/Gipsy Patch Lane roundabout.

iPoints and CCTV

The metrobus iPoints and the CCTV will not be installed at the Hatchet Road bus stops until just before the new metrobus service begins in 2023.

We will write to those living next to bus stops nearer the time to explain how the CCTV will operate. In the meantime, if you have any questions regarding the CCTV, please email CommunitySafetyTeam@southglos.gov.uk.

Update – Monday 23 November

The new 4,260 tonne railway bridge on Gipsy Patch Lane is now fully installed and the main rail line reopened.

This has been a significant engineering project and the bridge move was the heaviest lift of its kind to have been undertaken in the UK.

During the recent rail line closure, Network Rail and its contractor Alun Griffiths, worked round the clock to remove the track and overhead line equipment, demolish the former bridge on Gipsy Patch Lane, move the new bridge into position and reinstall the track and overhead line equipment.

Unfortunately, due to a significant engineering problem experienced during the bridge move, this work took longer than expected and the closure of the rail line had to be extended. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community for their patience during this phase of work.

Update – Monday 16 November

The new 4,260 tonne railway bridge on Gipsy Patch Lane is now in its final position, completing the heaviest lift of its kind ever undertaken in the UK.

Network Rail, and its contractor Alun Griffiths, will now continue with the next phase of work, which is to rebuild the embankment, reinstate the rail line and reinstall the overhead wires and supporting infrastructure.

The remainder of the work will be noisy and will be carried out round the clock so it is completed as quickly as possible. A number of noise mitigation measures such as acoustic barriers are in place but we apologise for any disruption that may be caused.

Anyone with questions or issues about the bridge replacement work should call the Network Rail 24/7 helpline on 03457 11 41 41.

Due to an engineering problem experienced during the bridge move, the closure of the rail line has been extended until Monday 23 November. This date could be subject to change and we will keep the community updated.

Rail passengers are reminded that rail replacement services, specifically between Bristol and Newport, remain in place until at least Monday 23 November. If you are planning to travel by train during this time please check carefully before doing so. For further details, please visit nationalrail.co.uk or GWR.com/Bristol.

Update – Wednesday 11 November

Work to complete the bridge replacement on Gipsy Patch Lane is continuing.

This is a highly complex engineering project. Weighing 4,260-tonnes, the new bridge was the heaviest lift of its kind ever undertaken in the UK and was not without risk.

The new bridge, which was built on site, was being moved into position using specialist hydraulic transporters which managed to successfully move it two thirds of the way into position before Network Rail, and its contractor Alun Griffiths, encountered a significant problem. The bridge is approximately 40 metres from its final position.

A separate team within Network Rail are investigating why the detailed plan did not work, in the meantime, the focus is on completing the work as quickly and as safely as possible.

Last week Network Rail and Alun Griffiths established a comprehensive plan to move the bridge into place and reinstate the railway, and they have been working on this since then. This plan involves several contingency options to help manage the significant complexity and risks involved.

Work is now focussed on moving the bridge temporarily off the hydraulic transporters it is sitting on, to reinforce the roadway and then enable the transporters to move the bridge successfully into place. Given the high risk and complex nature of the operation, Network Rail and Alun Griffiths have brought on board additional resources and specialists to assist them.

We will continue to update the community and our stakeholders on the work as it progresses. A further update will be issued on Monday 16 November.

The rail line between Bristol and Newport remains closed at this time; the current diversionary routes between London, Bristol and Wales, and the rail replacement service specifically between Bristol and Newport will remain in place until at least Monday 23 November, however, this date could be subject to further change.

We apologise for any inconvenience being caused by these ongoing works and we thank the local community for their patience.

Update – Monday 2 November

Despite detailed planning and preparation, our contractor, Network Rail has encountered a significant issue moving the new 4,260-tonne Gipsy Patch Lane bridge into place.

The bridge, which is already built, is being moved into position on a number of independent hydraulic transporters. Having successfully moved two thirds of the way into place the bridge transporters are now stuck.

Our focus, alongside Network Rail, is on resolving the issue so that the bridge can be moved into position. This is likely to take a number of days and will delay the re-opening of the mainline.

Rail services are still operating via alternative routes and rail replacement services.

Update – Thursday 17 September

The bridge replacement work will now take place from late evening on Saturday 24 October to the early hours of Saturday 7 November. During this time Network Rail, and its contractor Alun Griffiths, will be working continuously, night and day, to remove the track and overhead line equipment, demolish the existing bridge on Gipsy Patch Lane, move the new bridge into position and reinstall the track and overhead line equipment.

The planned work will involve the use of heavy machinery and noisy activities, such as excavation and further piling. The work will take place around the clock to allow as much work to be completed in the shortest possible time. Network Rail will work to minimise the disturbance and will put in place a number of noise mitigation measures such as acoustic barriers. All deliveries and construction equipment needing access during the work will enter via the A38 and the construction site on the west (non-residential) side of the bridge. We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused by this work.

Coronavirus (Covid-19)

Network Rail is regularly reviewing its contingency plans to mitigate as much risk as possible from Coronavirus. However, the project team will be guided by any future government advice or directives and in the lead up to and during the works the situation on local lockdowns will be monitored.

The works will be carried out in compliance with the latest government guidelines for the construction industry. At present they include following social distancing, where tasks are not able to be undertaken with social distancing appropriate PPE will be provided. Network Rail and Alun Griffiths have arranged additional welfare and extra cleaning provisions and there will be dedicated marshals on site at all times who will ensure controls and standards of cleanliness are maintained. Temperature checks of all personnel will also be taken on arrival to site.

We understand there is a great local interest in the CPME project but everyone should continue to practice social distancing to reduce the risk of spreading Coronavirus. People must follow government instructions on social distancing, which currently say people should not gather in groups of more than 6 people. Therefore, we would kindly ask that you do not visit the construction site, including the railway bridge area, on Gipsy Patch Lane to watch work taking place or interact with the workforce. Any questions or issues you may have can be raised via the Network Rail 24-hour helpline on 03457 11 41 41.

Train services

The bridge move will involve the closure of the railway line between Bristol Parkway and Newport from Sunday 25 October to Friday 6 November (inclusive). During this time train services in the area will be altered and buses will replace some trains. If you are planning to travel please check carefully before doing so.

For further details, please visit nationalrail.co.uk or GWR.com/Bristol.

Patchway Station

Between Sunday 25 October and Friday 6 November (inclusive) no trains will call at Patchway Station. However, rail replacement buses will run between Bristol Parkway, Patchway, Severn Tunnel Junction and Newport.

Parking suspensions will be in place at Patchway Station during this time to enable the rail replacement buses to turn. If you need to travel, customers are advised to park at Bristol Parkway instead. Additional parking enforcement patrols will be carried out in the Station Road area.

Gipsy Patch Lane closure

Once the new bridge has been moved into place and the railway line has been reopened Gipsy Patch Lane will remain closed to all road users to enable further works on the carriageway. The road closure is expected to last until July 2021.

This work will include:

• Demolition and excavation of the existing carriageway underneath the bridge
• Re-grading the junction with Station Road to tie-in with the new carriageway level
• Utility diversions underneath the new cycle and pedestrian pathways
• Installation of new surface water drainage system, including pumping station
• Installation of new street lighting
• Construction of new carriageway and pathways
• New traffic signs, road markings and landscaping/planting

The signed diversion route for motorists will remain via Bradley Stoke Way and the A38.

• Signed vehicle diversion route

• Alternative vehicle diversion route

A number of pedestrian and cycling diversion routes are also available. See the Gipsy Patch Lane – pedestrian access section below.

Station Road junction closure

The Station Road junction with Gipsy Patch Lane will also remain closed to vehicles after the railway line reopens. Pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to access Station Road via Gipsy Patch Lane.

The Station Road junction closure will enable Gipsy Patch Lane to be excavated down to the required new carriageway level, for new utilities and new drainage infrastructure to be installed and for the Station Road junction to be excavated down to tie-in with Gipsy Patch Lane.

The diversion route for vehicles to reach Station Road will remain via Clay Lane and Little Stoke Lane. Please be aware that access to businesses to the southern end of Station Road is restricted by a footbridge with a height restriction of 4.2 metres.

Update – Wednesday 24 June

The bridge move on Gipsy Patch Lane was due to take place over the Easter period but because of Coronavirus (Covid-19) and government guidance concerning social distancing Network Rail postponed the work along with a number of other schemes across the wider rail network.

Since this time Network Rail has continued to work hard behind the scenes with its stakeholders, contractor and supply chain to identify a new date when the Gipsy Patch Lane railway bridge can be manoeuvred into position.

The bridge move on Gipsy Patch Lane will now take place between Saturday 24 October and the early hours of Saturday 7 November 2020 and will take approximately 13 days to complete.

The 13 days take into consideration the extra time needed to carry out work whilst observing the current government guidelines on Coronavirus and social distancing. Network Rail are also hoping to be able to complete some of the tasks on the railway that previously would have been carried out in separate follow up shifts.

To enable the bridge replacement, which is a significant piece of engineering work, the rail line must be closed to trains for a number of days and arranging this has been a complex process that needed to take into account a range of factors, including:

• The latest Coronavirus government guidance.
• The availability of a wide range of critical equipment, machinery and people, including the self-propelled modular transporter (SPMT) units that will pick up and move the new bridge into position.
• Securing local accommodation for the 150 specialist railway engineering staff that will be working on the bridge replacement.
• Co-ordination with other railway projects requiring rail line closures elsewhere on the national rail network.
• Consultation with Train Operating Companies and Freight Operating Companies because a closure impacts on train services, passengers and freight movements.

In June 2022, the CPME project team appointed external consultants to carry out noise surveys along Gipsy Patch Lane to the east of the railway bridge (the residential side) to satisfy the requirements of the Noise Insultation Regulations 1975 (as amended 1988).

These regulations required the council to assess whether the operation of the widened road had resulted, or was predicted to result, in an increase in noise levels beyond statutory thresholds. If the thresholds were exceeded, or predicted to be exceeded, then households experiencing these higher noise levels would be eligible for a grant towards home noise insulation.

The results of the noise surveys were used by the consultants to undertake a Noise Assessment. The assessment found that noise levels along Gipsy Patch Lane to the east of the railway bridge were not high enough, nor predicted to become high enough in the future, to trigger any households to be eligible for a grant.

You can read the Noise Assessment’s non-technical summary, which explains how this conclusion has been reached, and the full technical report.

What is the Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension and what are the benefits?

The Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension will improve connectivity between key destinations in South Gloucestershire by providing a fast and direct metrobus route between Parkway train station and The Mall bus station. The metrobus extension is one of a package of measures to tackle congestion by providing high quality public transport options, especially focused on the transport needs of residents living in, and workers travelling to, the North Fringe of Bristol. The benefits of the scheme are that it will provide a quick, reliable, high quality public transport system and a comfortable and realistic alternative to single occupancy car use which will help reduce congestion and improve journey times for all road users in this area.

Why do you need to replace the Gipsy Patch Lane railway bridge and widen Gipsy Patch Lane and what are the benefits?

A new, wider railway bridge and the widening of Gipsy Patch Lane is necessary to deliver the approved bus lanes and improved paths as part of the Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension.

The new bridge is wide enough to include a shared use path on both sides of the road, a general traffic lane and a bus lane in each direction underneath the bridge. These measures are designed to encourage people to use more sustainable transport options and will benefit road users by relieving the pinch point in traffic flow at the railway bridge, reducing traffic queuing, improving metrobus and other local bus journey times, and improving facilities for pedestrians and cyclists

What is the route?

Metrobuses will travel in both directions along the route from Bristol Parkway train station via Hatchet Road, Gipsy Patch Lane, through the Horizon 38 site, across the A38, through the Cribbs Patchway New Neighbourhood (the major mixed use development site on the former Filton Airfield), over the San Andreas roundabout on Hayes Way and along Highwood Road to The Mall bus station.

Why is the Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension called an extension?

This stretch is called an extension as it will allow the metrobus routes already in operation to extend to benefit more communities. The Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension is an extension of the North Fringe to Hengrove metrobus route. The extension will provide a route to Cribbs Causeway through the Cribbs Patchway New Neighbourhood (the major mixed use development site on the former Filton Airfield).

Why was the Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension not included in the original North Fringe to Hengrove metrobus plans?

When the North Fringe to Hengrove metrobus scheme was prepared and the funding bid submitted to the Government, Filton Airfield was still in operation. Since then, the airfield closure was announced by its owners and the site, known as the Cribbs Patchway New Neighbourhood, was allocated for re-development by South Gloucestershire Council. This is why the Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension route is not currently included on all diagrams of the wider metrobus network.

Are you consulting on the scheme?

The main consultation phase on the design of the scheme has ended. We consulted on design proposals from November 2015 to January 2016 – https://consultations.southglos.gov.uk/consult.ti/CPMEconsult/consultationHome Consultation was also undertaken on the planning applications for the scheme from March to June 2018.

There will be consultation on the Traffic Regulation Orders required for enforcing the bus lanes when these are advertised.

Where can I see the designs?

The designs that received planning permission can be viewed on our CPME webpage at southglos.gov.uk/CPmetrobus

The planning application documentation is available to view on our planning application webpages.  The following reference numbers can be used to search for the documentation:

• San Andreas roundabout: PT18/0992/R3F
• Gipsy Patch Lane railway bridge: PT18/0986/F
• Gipsy Patch Lane highways work and Hatchet Road bus stops: PT18/0987/R3F

Who is carrying out the work?

South Gloucestershire Council’s Streetcare division are undertaking the roadworks at the San Andreas roundabout on Hayes Way and along Gipsy Patch Lane other than the replacement of the railway bridge and the lowering of the highway under the bridge which is being undertaken by Network Rail and their contractor.

Why aren’t you providing bus lanes in both directions along the whole of the route?

The scheme has been designed to encourage people to use sustainable forms of travel and to deliver the most efficient bus routes. Bus lanes have been included where they are needed most.

Will other vehicles be permitted to use the bus lanes?

Like other bus lanes in South Gloucestershire, it is proposed that the bus lanes will be for use by metrobus services, other bus services, taxis, cyclists and emergency vehicles only. The Traffic Regulation Orders covering these are subject to consultation and will be confirmed at a later date.

Won’t building new bus lanes create more congestion?

No, the new bus lanes will be in addition to the existing road space and will not therefore reduce capacity for general traffic.

Will widening roads to build new bus lanes make it harder for pedestrians to cross the road? Will it isolate local communities?

The scheme aims to improve the environment for all users – pedestrians, cyclists and vehicle traffic and to provide safe routes that keep communities joined together. The widening of Gipsy Patch Lane is to enable the addition of bus lanes and cycle/pedestrian paths in order to encourage sustainable transport and reduce congestion. New bus lanes will not be used by general traffic and existing crossing facilities will be retained.

Why are new/wider paths for pedestrians and cyclists being proposed when there are already shared use paths in the area?

Any successful and well planned pedestrian and cycling network should maximise route choice. We are working to provide a mix of route types and choices for cyclists and pedestrians that maximise convenience and safety.

Will trees and hedges have to be removed to make way for the scheme?

To provide the approved bus lanes and improved paths, we will need to widen the highway on Gipsy Patch Lane and in order to do this we removed trees and hedges from the south side of Gipsy Patch Lane in February 2021. We will plant as many new trees and shrubs as possible to mitigate for these losses.

Will wildlife be affected?

A series of habitat and species surveys have been undertaken and we are complying with a number of conditions placed on the planning permissions to ensure that any impacts on wildlife are minimised and that any disturbance is mitigated.

What about air quality along the route?

Metrobus vehicles are expected to be modern, low carbon emission vehicles. We anticipate that the scheme will provide an overall improvement to air quality along the route by reducing traffic congestion and encouraging more people to use public transport.

How much is the whole scheme including the replacement of the bridge going to cost?

The whole CPME scheme, including the replacement of the Gipsy Patch Lane railway bridge, will cost approximately £57m. The cost of the project is being covered by funding secured through the West of England Combined Authority.

Are you undertaking traffic camera surveys?

We undertook a survey during March 2019 using cameras to help us understand traffic movements in the area. We may use cameras for this purpose at other times during the project too. Cameras will not be angled to record individuals or towards any private property.

The council will use recorded data to determine journey times and the number of vehicles travelling between the points.  This will help us to plan diversion routes and traffic management in the area during the CPME construction work.  The cameras will not be used for any kind of enforcement and surveys will be undertaken in accordance with the principles of the Data Protection Act.

When will the construction work for the CPME project be completed?

Construction is due to be completed by early 2023.

However, the opportunity to bring forward work on bus stops east of bridge was identified and progressed and the overall programme is being reviewed to accommodate the recent change to Network Rail’s extended programme of works.

Why has the bridge been replaced?

A new, wider railway bridge and the widening of Gipsy Patch Lane is necessary to deliver the approved bus lanes and shared use paths as part of the Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension (CPME).

The new bridge is wide enough to include a shared use path on both sides of the road, a general traffic lane and a bus lane in each direction underneath the bridge.

These measures are designed to encourage people to use more sustainable transport options and will benefit road users by relieving the pinch point in traffic flow at the railway bridge, reducing traffic queuing, improving metrobus and other local bus journey times, and improving facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.

Network Rail and its contractor Alun Griffiths are working on behalf of the council to provide the new wider bridge as part of the CPME project.

Why was the bridge move postponed?

Unfortunately, due to the Coronavirus pandemic Network Rail had no choice but to postpone the bridge replacement work at Easter 2020, along with a number of other schemes across the wider rail network. This was due to the need to comply with government guidelines on social distancing. The bridge replacement work took place in October/November 2020.

Why couldn’t the bridge move happen sooner?

Network Rail worked hard behind the scenes with its stakeholders, contractor and supply chain to identify a date when the new Gipsy Patch Lane railway bridge could be manoeuvred into position.

To enable the bridge replacement, which was a significant piece of engineering work, the rail line had to be closed to trains for a number of days and arranging this was a complex process that needed to take into account a range of factors.

What happened during the bridge replacement work?

During the rail line closure in October/November 2020, Network Rail and its contractor Alun Griffiths, worked round the clock to remove the track and overhead line equipment, demolish the former bridge on Gipsy Patch Lane, move the new bridge into position and reinstall the track and overhead line equipment.

Unfortunately, due to a significant engineering problem experienced during the bridge move, this work took longer than expected and the closure of the rail line had to be extended. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued patience during this phase of work.

Has Network Rail completed its investigation about the bridge move problem?

The lessons learnt review has been completed by Network Rail with recommendations still being worked through. The immediate cause of the incident was identified as the failure of the temporary roadway.

What additional costs were incurred due to the bridge move problems and the railway closure lasting longer than planned?

The full and final cost is still being finalised.

On which organisation(s) have/will the extra costs fall and why?

The extra cost will fall to Network Rail to manage and resolve as the manager of these works.

It is the Council’s view that the authority will not be liable for the additional costs and penalties arising from the delay experienced during the bridge installation.

Why hasn’t Gipsy Patch Lane reopened now the bridge is complete?

Now the new bridge has been moved into place and the railway line has been reopened, Gipsy Patch Lane and the Station Road junction with Gipsy Patch Lane will remain closed to all road users to enable further works on the carriageway. This work is to make way for the new bus lanes and shared use cycle and pedestrian pathways.

What work is being completed at the bridge?

Work includes:

• Demolition and excavation of the existing carriageway underneath the bridge
• Installation of new surface water drainage system, including pumping station
• Utility diversions underneath the new cycle and pedestrian pathways
• Construction of new carriageway and pathways
• Re-grading the junction with Station Road to tie-in with the new carriageway level
• New traffic signs, road markings, lighting and landscaping/planting

This work will be carried out during the daytime, between the hours of 7.30am and 6pm, Monday to Friday. Network Rail, and its contractor, will work to minimise any disruption caused.

Why does the road under the Gipsy Patch Lane railway bridge have to be lowered?

There are national design standards that must be complied with whenever a new bridge is built. These standards include how much headroom is required under a new bridge. The headroom under the old bridge was sub-standard. It is not possible to raise the bridge because of the railway line, so in order to comply with the standards for a new bridge, the only option is to lower the road.

When is Gipsy Patch Lane going to reopen to traffic at the railway bridge?

Network Rail and its contractor recently applied for a renewed Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO), which will allow them to keep Gipsy Patch Lane closed to traffic at the railway bridge until mid-December. However, it is hoped that the road will be able to reopen in one direction sooner than this.

When Gipsy Patch Lane reopens at the railway bridge, significant traffic management will still be required along the road as part of the widening works, which are due to begin this summer.

Why has the date been extended?

The road needs to remain closed while Network Rail, and its contractor, continue to carry out works to lower the road as well as install an improved drainage system, including a new pumping station under the road.

Following ongoing surveys and investigations, a larger pumping station and drainage system than previously envisaged is now required to help future-proof this key stretch of road from flooding.

Due to this upgrade in the drainage system, Gipsy Patch Lane needs to remain closed at the railway bridge for longer. As has been the case throughout the CPME, and given the scale of this major infrastructure project, dates can be subject to change. We apologise for this and for the ongoing disruption it may be causing.

Why didn’t you plan for for the improved drainage system before?

The installation of the improved drainage system and new pumping station is a significant piece of work. As can be the case with projects of this scale, despite extensive planning and preparation, it is only when groundwork begins that we understand the full scope of what is required, and factors come to light that need to be incorporated into the works.

We apologise for the ongoing disruption and any inconvenience caused by the road closure.

Why can’t you reopen the road to traffic sooner?

Network Rail, and its contractor, need sufficient space under the new railway bridge to carry out this work safely. However, the situation will be monitored to see if there is an opportunity to open some of the carriageway to traffic sooner.

These traffic management arrangements will also need to be co-ordinated with the road widening works on Gipsy Patch Lane which are due to commence either side of the railway bridge during the summer. We will update the community when we have more information.

What about pedestrian access?

Access for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists will remain open under the railway bridge.

What is the diversion route while the road remains closed?

The signed diversion route for the closure is via Bradley Stoke Way and the A38, and vice versa.

Will this impact on the overall timetable of the CPME project?

The construction work for the CPME project is still expected to complete in early 2023. However, we will continue to keep the community up to date.

Will this impact on when the road widening work is scheduled to start?

We continue to work closely with Network Rail and its contractor to coordinate the different phases of work and to realise any opportunity to carry out the road widening works earlier to minimise disruption. We are resequencing the road widening works to accommodate the extended Network Rail programme.

I run a business on the route, will you pay compensation for any loss of earnings during the work?

The general rule is that there is no automatic or statutory provision for compensation to be payable by the highway authority if a business is affected by roadworks.

However there is potential relief from business rates available if business premises are affected by severe local disruption.

The Government’s website contains information regarding claiming for a business rates reduction in the form of hardship relief: www.gov.uk/apply-for-business-rate-relief/hardship-relief

Our website also contains information on how to apply for hardship relief: www.southglos.gov.uk/business/business-rates/businessrates-reductions/financial-hardship-relief/

If you think you may be eligible you should arrange your own representation for further advice on how and when to make a claim.

I live on Gipsy Patch Lane, am I eligible for noise insulation?

There is the potential for some homes adjacent to Gipsy Patch Lane to be eligible to receive a grant towards noise insulation under the Noise Insulation Regulations 1975 (as amended 1988) found here – https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1975/1763/made.

Calculations to determine eligibility will take into account any noise increases resulting from operation of the completed scheme, not construction noise.

Potential noise insulation work that could be carried out includes secondary glazing, supplementary ventilation and, where appropriate, venetian blinds and double or insulated doors.

The Council will undertake calculations and noise measurements to determine eligibility for a grant after the CPME scheme is built. We will contact any homes identified as being eligible with further information at that time.

I live on Gipsy Patch Lane and I think the new route will affect the value of my property, am I eligible for compensation?

There may be the potential to make a claim under Part 1 of the Land Compensation Act 1973(http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1973/26/contents) for depreciation of property value caused by the CPME scheme. Claims made under this Act cannot be made until one year after the work is completed.

Government guidance can be found here – https://www.gov.uk/compensation-road-property-value.

If you think you may be eligible you should arrange your own representation for further advice on how and when to make a claim.

If you require more information about the processes outlined above call 01454 864220.

When will the road widening on Gipsy Patch Lane take place?

The works east of bridge (the residential side) is starting in May 2021. Works for the road widening will begin west of bridge later in 2021. However, we continue to work with Network Rail and its contractor to coordinate the different phases of work and to understand if there is further opportunity to carry out any works on Gipsy Patch Lane earlier.

Why are you widening the road?

Road widening is needed on Gipsy Patch Lane to enable the creation of a new bus lane, as part of the CPME.

Will there need to be any traffic management during the road widening work?

To enable these works to be carried out safely and as efficiently as possible a westbound one-way system needs to be installed along Gipsy Patch Lane, between the junction with Little Stoke Lane and the mini roundabout at Rolls Royce once the full closure of the road at the railway bridge has ended.

When is the one-way system starting?

September.  We will publicise the precise date as soon as it is confirmed.

Why is the road only opening one way?

The one-way system is needed for the road widening work that we are doing to enable the construction of new bus lanes. A one-way system gives our crews the required working space so they can complete the works in a methodical and efficient way whilst balancing the community need to reinstate a traffic system through the bridge. A two-way system would delay completion because work crews could only work on a small section of the road at a time and significant amounts of time would be spent on re-arranging the traffic management as they progress.

Why is it westbound?

Westbound is the best option because this addresses the predominant traffic flows towards the A38 in morning peak travel time and will help to ease congestion in the area as more cars are expected to be using the local road network as Covid restrictions ease.

What if I am travelling eastbound?

Traffic that needs to travel eastbound will still be required to use the existing diversion route via the A38, Bradley Stoke Way and Winterbourne Road. The diversion route will continue to be fully signposted.

Why are you closing some of the side road junctions on Gipsy Patch Lane?

For safety reasons, some side roads to the east of the railway bridge that fall within the one-way system will need to be closed at their junctions with Gipsy Patch Lane. This will include Station Road, Gifford Crescent, the Gipsy Patch Lane service road, Smithcourt Drive, Bush Avenue and Titan Road.  The eastern access to Bush Avenue will remain open to residents and patrons of the pub.

Closing these side roads is considered the safest approach once the one-way system is installed to prevent drivers potentially turning the wrong way out of these junctions. We also cannot allow traffic to exit side roads through a live construction site. The safety of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists is a priority during this project.

Will the Gipsy Patch Lane service road on the north side be open to vehicles?

Yes, but only via the junction with Gifford Crescent.

I live in Bush Avenue/ Smithcourt Drive, do I still have vehicular access?

The eastern access to Bush Avenue, nearest to Little Stoke Lane, will remain open to residents.

What about access to Pegasus Park?

Access to Pegasus Park will be retained, but traffic entering and exiting will now need to comply with the one-way system, i.e. it will be right-in and right-out only.

What about access to Horizon 38?

Titan Road needs to be closed to facilitate the construction works in that area, so all traffic will need to use Taurus Road.  Taurus Road will be outside of the one-way system so all movements at that junction will be permitted.

What about access to the shops and services in Gifford Crescent?

Pedestrian and cyclist access for residents and businesses will be maintained. Vehicle access will be available via Little Stoke Lane and Kingsway.

What about access to businesses on Station Road?

The Station Road junction on Gipsy Patch Lane will remain closed to vehicles, so vehicular access to Station Road will continue to be via Clay Lane to the north.

How long will the one-way system be in operation?

Once installed, the one-way system will need to remain in place until the road widening work is completed along the full length of Gipsy Patch Lane. This work is due to be completed in late 2022.

Is there still access for pedestrians and cyclists?

Gipsy Patch Lane will remain accessible both ways for pedestrians, cyclists and wheelchair users, and there will be a new, temporary crossing across Gipsy Patch Lane near to Gifford Crescent.  However, there will be no on-carriageway cycle facilities through the works due to the limited available road width.

What if the one-way system causes congestion or other local traffic issues?

We will be monitoring traffic flows on Gipsy Patch Lane and the surrounding network and diversion routes throughout and we will review signing, etc if problems arise.

What is happening with speed limits on Bush Avenue

This is a proposal promoted by your local councillors. A temporary 20mph limit will be in place on Bush Avenue and Smithcourt Drive during the Gipsy Patch Lane road widening works.

What is happening with traffic management and speeds on Little Stoke Lane?

There are no proposals for further waiting restrictions in the Little Stoke Lane area at the present time.  We recently undertook speed surveys of traffic using Little Stoke Lane and the results showed that the 20mph limit at that location is generally well respected.  However, the Council is continuing to work with the police to ensure that speed limits in the area are enforced.

Will the Gifford Crescent closure impact local bus services?

From 5 July, the straight stretch of Gifford Crescent off Gipsy Patch Lane will be closed until the road widening works are complete in 2022. Following the closure, the 12 bus service will not service the east or westbound stop at Bush Avenue nor the west and southbound stop at Kingsway Roundabout. The signposted diversion will be via Little Stoke Lane which is expected to remain in place until the Gipsy Patch Lane road widening is complete. Please check www.travelwest.info for all the latest travel information.

Why are you still building a bus lane with more people working from home?

Despite the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on traffic levels and public transport use in the short term, the work we are doing now is to invest in sustainable modes of transport for our long-term future. It is still expected that in the future, planned development in the area will continue and public transport will be required to help people move around efficiently and sustainably.

Why didn’t you carry out the road widening work during the pandemic when roads were quiet?

We were unable to start the road widening work earlier in the pandemic because trees and shrubs needed to be removed to enable this work to take place. Trees and shrubs should not be removed during bird nesting season, which runs between March and September.

Once the trees and shrubs were removed, we have had to carry out further investigations of ground conditions and to confirm the locations of underground services. This information has been informing our detailed designs and plans for the road widening and our landscaping plans for post construction.

The CPME Project Team has looked for opportunities to bring forward the East of Bridge works from the scheduled programme and is working with the contractors to re-sequence works on the residential side of GPL so that completion of these is brought forward as much as possible.

Why didn’t you plan to do more of the east of bridge works while the road is closed?

The main road widening works to the east and west of the bridge have been sequenced to start after Network Rail’s bridge works for the following reasons:

• To allow Network Rail and their contractors to work with minimal hindrance from other roadworks taking place in the vicinity of their works, risking delay
• Allowing continued access to residential properties and businesses to the east and west of the bridge, whilst the road is closed under the bridge
• The major works to the east and west of the bridge require a one-way traffic management system, which would have been difficult to put in place without the road under the bridge being open
• Reduction of overall construction related disruption from the works, which would have been greater and more sustained if all works were taking place at the same time.
• To allow for investigations and completion of detailed designs for the works, including preparation of robust proposals for mitigation of the loss of the avenue of trees on GPL.
• These investigations have also identified requirements for the diversion of a water main not originally identified by the water company as being necessary and works have been replanned to accommodate this.
• The trees were maintained for as long as possible and removed prior to the bird nesting season.

When the works were originally planned and scheduled, the Covid19 situation was unforeseen. Nevertheless, the CPME Project Team has looked for opportunities to bring forward the East of Bridge works from the scheduled programme and is working with the contractors to re-sequence works on the residential side of GPL so that completion of these is brought forward as much as possible.

What are you doing?

As part of CPME four bus stops along Gipsy Patch Lane will be upgraded to metrobus stops.

The upgrades include extending the bus stop platforms, new paving, replacing the existing shelters with new metrobus shelters and the installation of metrobus iPoints and CCTV to monitor the stops. iPoints provide travel information and allow passengers to purchase tickets before they board and plan journeys.

The initial phases of work involve extending the bus stop platforms, laying the new paving and installing the electrical connections needed for the iPoints and CCTV.

Which bus stops are being upgraded?

As part of CPME, four bus stops along Gipsy Patch Lane will be upgraded to metrobus stops. The bus stops affected are:

• Bush Avenue bus stop, westbound
• Bush Avenue bus stop, eastbound
• Rolls Royce bus stop, eastbound
• Rolls Royce bus stop, westbound

When will the work begin and how long will it last?

The Bush Avenue bus stops, located to the east of the railway bridge (the residential side), will be upgraded first. This work began in February 2021 and was completed in early May. However, the installation of new shelters will take place at a later date.

The Rolls Royce bus stops will be upgraded later in the construction programme.

Will there be any traffic management?

To enable the work to take place traffic management is needed along Gipsy Patch Lane.

The current traffic management arrangements are as follows:

For work to take place at the Bush Avenue bus stop, eastbound, a lane closure is required. This reduces the eastbound carriageway on Gipsy Patch Lane to a single lane of traffic.

For work to take place at the Bush Avenue bus stop, westbound, a lane closure is also required. However, this means that the westbound carriageway on Gipsy Patch Lane is closed to all traffic between its junction with Little Stoke Lane and just before its junction with Smithcourt Drive. No vehicles are able to travel westbound along this stretch of Gipsy Patch Lane for the duration of these works.

Access to Bush Avenue and Smithcourt Drive is not affected and the pedestrian crossing on Gipsy Patch Lane will be maintained during the works.

A signed diversion route is available via Little Stoke Lane, Kingsway, and Gifford Crescent, and vice versa.

The closures will need to remain in place around the clock during the works which are expected to be complete by early May.

Where can I catch a bus during the work?

Please visit travelwest.info/travel-updates.

Why are you installing CCTV?

Cameras will be installed at metrobus stops to ensure the safety and security of passengers using the facilities, especially buying tickets using the iPoints. Good quality evidence collection protects the safety of our communities, and supports our overarching aim to keep South Gloucestershire a great place to live and work.

The privacy of residents living nearby has been considered as part of this work. As a result, we will be configuring these cameras to ensure that the surrounding residential addresses are not captured by the scope of the cameras.

The metrobus iPoints and the CCTV will not be installed at the bus stops until just before the new metrobus service begins in 2023.

We will write to those living next to bus stops nearer the time to explain how the CCTV will operate.

If you have any questions regarding the CCTV, please email CommunitySafetyTeam@southglos.gov.uk.

Why are you doing this work now?

By carrying out this work to these two bus stops while Gipsy Patch Lane is still closed at the bridge, this will reduce the impact of these works on local traffic.

What are you doing?

Road widening is needed on Gipsy Patch Lane to enable the creation of a new bus lane, as part of the Cribbs Patchway metrobus extension (CPME). To make way for the construction of the bus lane a number of trees and hedgerows need to be removed along Gipsy Patch Lane.

How many trees did you remove?

We needed to remove 20 trees (and shrubs/hedges) from the south side of Gipsy Patch Lane east of the railway bridge (the residential side), to enable the construction of the new bus lane. Shrubs and hedgerow were also removed. No trees were removed from the north side.

A number of trees were also removed from Gipsy Patch Lane west of the railway bridge to enable construction of the new Rolls Royce westbound metrobus stop.

When were the trees removed?

The tree removal and de-vegetation work took place in February 2021.

Why couldn’t you remove the existing trees and replant them?

There are a high number of underground utilities, including mains gas, water and electric, in the verges near to where the trees were.  We could not have lifted the trees with enough root to successfully transplant them whilst safely avoiding the utilities.

How many trees will you replace?

The CPME project made a commitment to plant as many new trees and shrubs as possible to mitigate for these losses and have been working on landscaping proposals for Gipsy Patch Lane for when construction work is complete.

In September 2020, as part of our planning for the landscaping work, we dug a number of trial trenches along the verge of Gipsy Patch Lane east of the railway bridge. One of the things that affects where planting can occur is the location of underground utilities.  Although we have plans that show where utilities should be located, it is only when ground is dug that we can be sure of where they are.

The information gathered from the trial trenches has helped inform draft landscaping proposals for Gipsy Patch Lane on the east side of the railway bridge, which includes proposals to plant 24 new trees along Gipsy Patch Lane – 20 on the south side and 4 on the north side.

The tree planting proposals include:

• 19 new Lime trees
• 2 Mountain Ash, to be planted at the railway bridge end
• 3 native English Oaks in the new hedge line, to replace a mature Ash removed in September 2020, due to Ash die back.

The draft plan, which is available to view on our project website, shows the confidence levels for each proposed tree based on our investigations undertaken up to October 2020.

The draft plan also shows where we propose to plant native hedges and ornamental shrubs, as well as areas for spring flowering bulbs and herbaceous planting.

Due to the high number of underground utilities, continuing investigations are required and we are digging further trial trenches to verify assumptions.  These ongoing investigations will be used to update the draft plan during 2021.

Could these landscaping plans change?

These are draft planting plans and they may need to be adjusted following further ground investigations happening in 2021, or during the construction phase to take account of any unforeseen issues, which could impact on the numbers and locations of new trees and plants that can be planted.

What about the other side of the bridge?

We are currently in the process of developing our landscaping proposals for Gipsy Patch Lane west of the bridge. We will share these with the community when they are available.

What about all the trees that were removed near the bridge and railway line?

Network Rail and its contractor Alun Griffiths are responsible for the replanting around the new bridge and railway line and are currently working on their landscaping plans for this area.

Why are no trees planned in front of Bush Avenue?

Due to the limited width between Bush Avenue and the new cycle and pedestrian path, planting is not be feasible in this location. Any planting would substantially reduce the width of the cycle and pedestrian path and/or Bush Avenue.

What about wildlife on Gipsy Patch Lane?

In 2015, as part of the planning application, the project team compiled an Environmental Impact Assessment, which included an Ecological Survey. This survey was recently updated and the results showed no presence of bats or badgers.

The removal of the hedgerows was carried out under the supervision of an Ecological Clerk of Works.

What happens if the landscaping dies back?

The planning approval requires any landscaping that fails within a period of 5 years to be replaced.

If the Council declared a climate emergency, why have you cut down trees?

As part of declaring a Climate Emergency the Council committed to increasing action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transport which would contribute to the target of net zero carbon emissions across the area by 2030.

Whilst it is regrettable that trees need to be removed in order to build bus lanes, replacement planting will be undertaken and CPME is about increasing the provision and take up of sustainable modes of transport which itself directly contributes to addressing the climate emergency.  It also enables the Council to create a realistic alternative to single occupancy car travel.

The CPME project is committed to replacing as many trees as possible along Gipsy Patch Lane. The project’s new draft landscaping plans for east of the bridge show aspirations to plant 24 trees to mitigate the loss of the ones we are removing. The trees will be approximately 3-4 metres high when they are first planted.

In addition to the landscaping plans for Gipsy Patch Lane, the CPME project has already provided funding for 53 trees of various species to be planted at Winterbourne Road and Orpheus Avenue.  The trees were planted in 2020.

Why are you still building a bus lane with more people working from home?

Despite the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on traffic levels and public transport use in the short term, the work we are doing now is to invest in sustainable modes of transport for our long term future. It is still expected that in the future, planned development in the area will continue and public transport will be required to help people move around efficiently and sustainably.

When will the road widening on Gipsy Patch Lane take place?

The works east of bridge (the residential side) is starting in May 2021. Works for the road widening will begin west of bridge later in 2021. However, we continue to work with Network Rail and its contractor to coordinate the different phases of work and to understand if there is further opportunity to carry out any works on Gipsy Patch Lane earlier.

During these construction activities traffic management measures will continue to be in place on Gipsy Patch Lane and we will keep the wider community updated on this nearer the time.

Why did you remove the trees in January if work doesn’t start until the summer?

The planned road widening work required the removal of trees and shrubs, which should not take place during bird nesting season, which runs between March and September.

What are you doing?

As part of CPME two bus stops along Hatchet Road are being upgraded to metrobus stops.

The upgrades include extending the bus stop platforms, new paving, replacing the existing shelters with new metrobus shelters and the installation of metrobus iPoints and CCTV to monitor the stops. iPoints provide travel information and allow passengers to purchase tickets before they board and plan journeys.

What work have you completed so far?

New metrobus shelters have been installed both north and southbound on Hatchet Road. The iPoints and CCTV will be installed shortly before the new metrobus service begins in 2023.

Why are you installing CCTV?

Cameras will be installed at metrobus stops to ensure the safety and security of passengers using the facilities, especially buying tickets using the iPoints. Good quality evidence collection protects the safety of our communities, and supports our overarching aim to keep South Gloucestershire a great place to live and work.

The privacy of residents living nearby has been considered as part of this work. As a result, we will be configuring these cameras to ensure that the surrounding residential addresses are not captured by the scope of the cameras.

The metrobus iPoints and the CCTV will not be installed at the bus stops until just before the new metrobus service begins in 2023.

We will write to those living next to bus stops nearer the time of the CCTV being installed to explain how it will operate.

If you have any questions regarding the CCTV, please email CommunitySafetyTeam@southglos.gov.uk.

What is happening at the San Andreas roundabout on Hayes Way and when?

A new bus-only road link has been added onto the south of the existing San Andreas roundabout.  This has required work to elongate the roundabout and install new signalling, including signal-controlled crossings for pedestrians and cyclists. Work to this section of the project is now complete, with landscaping, including tree planting, planned to take place over the rest of 2021.

How can I be kept up to date on the project?

You can sign up to receive newsletters from us on our webpage southglos.gov.uk/CPmetrobus or by emailing CPmetrobus@southglos.gov.uk

We will be keeping our webpage and social media pages up to date with the latest information too.

CPME has its own Facebook page.

How can I have my say about the work?

We consulted on design proposals from November 2015 to January 2016 – https://consultations.southglos.gov.uk/consult.ti/CPMEconsult/consultationHome Consultation was also undertaken on the planning applications for the scheme from March to June 2018.

We are now in the construction phase and are using a range of communication channels to encourage people to sign up to receive updates.

As part of our commitment to keeping people informed, we held a series of public drop-in sessions during 2019 and early 2020. We will hold further events during the project, subject to Covid-19 restrictions.