The Society has commented on the planning application for a new ’Southern Gateway’ to Temple Meads station, where a multi-storey car park will replace the current parking on the north side of the station. This follows the public consultation earlier this year.
We support the application but only if it can be shown to be workable. The gateway is attempting to do a lot within a constrained site, alongside one of the busiest highways in Bristol. It is catering for users by car, bus, bike and on foot. And the car park is providing disabled parking, long-term parking, short-term parking, and drop-off/pick-up spaces. We remain sceptical that one lane in/ one lane out will provide sufficient capacity at peak times.
The workability of the proposed gateway depends crucially on plans for the covered walkway to the station and changes to the adjacent highway, both of which are outside the red line of the development. We would like to see more information on this to support the application. In particular we wait to see from the Council the design of nearby highway changes.
We think the architectural design is probably as good as it can be, given the constraints of the masterplan and the tightness of the development site. We support Historic England’s suggestion to review the design so as to mitigate the impact on the visual approach to Bristol along the Bath Road.
Alan Morris
Response to February 2025 consultation
Is there access to this Southern Gateway for drivers travelling from the south – Bath and Wells Roads?
Or do they have to drive past to be able to head back south to get in?
Keith, it’s the latter. Drivers will have to drive past to be able to head back south to get in.