North West Transit Expansion Plans Take Shape
West of England plans green buses, light rail to airport, and new train stations
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West of England Plans Mass Transit System Expansion
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Transit riders across Bristol, Bath, and surrounding areas will see major service improvements as regional officials push forward with plans for a mass transit system. Helen Godwin, West of England Metro Mayor, outlined priorities including green bus expansion, light rail connections, and new train stations during her first-year review. The initiatives aim to strengthen public transport throughout the South West, though officials haven't specified exact timelines for individual projects.
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The transit expansion comes as the combined authority gained additional powers through the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act, which received Royal Assent on April 29, 2026. These new powers cover transport, strategic planning, economic development, and health across Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, and South Gloucestershire. Godwin was elected in May 2025 with 25% of the vote to lead the regional authority. The expanded authority allows officials to pursue larger-scale transit projects that weren't previously possible under the region's governance structure.
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Officials are pushing for a light rail link to Bristol Airport, along with new train stations at Bristol Brabazon and Charfield. The mayor's office also plans to strengthen transit connections with North Somerset, extending the system's reach beyond current boundaries. During her first year, Godwin secured approval for reviving the Portishead railway line, a project that's been discussed for years. Specific ridership projections and service frequency details for the new routes weren't available by publication time.
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The green bus rollout and mass transit development will proceed in phases, officials said, though they haven't released a detailed implementation schedule. An investment conference is planned for the coming weeks in Leeds to promote the region's economy and attract funding for major projects including Bristol Temple Quarter and the Brabazon and West Innovation Arc new town. Officials said they'll provide more specific timelines as planning progresses.
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Riders can expect gradual service improvements as projects move through planning and construction phases. Officials said the changes will improve connections between Bristol, Bath, and surrounding communities while reducing travel times to key destinations like the airport. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for West of England transit services as routes expand.
