This week marks the start of vegetation clearance along the Portishead Railway line, paving the way for construction to reopen the long-disused railway. The work initiates the final phase of enabling tasks ahead of the main construction, which is set to begin early next year.
Over the last two years, key preparatory efforts have taken place. In 2023, a dedicated “bat corridor” was established to protect local wildlife by diverting them away from the railway path. Subsequently, in 2024, the old railway tracks were removed and generously donated to the Avon Valley Heritage Railway.
The current clearance starts in Portishead and will continue towards Pill. Marcus Jones, Western route director at Network Rail, expressed enthusiasm about the progress: “This project has been a long-standing ambition, and we’re thrilled to now be entering the delivery phase.”
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Clearing the vegetation will make space for temporary construction compounds, car parks, and ultimately the two new stations planned at Pill and Portishead. The new Pill station will be constructed on the historic site near Station Road railway bridge, while Portishead station will emerge near Quays Avenue. Closed to passengers since the Beeching Cuts in 1964, the railway line aims to reopen to the public by 2028.
West of England Metro Mayor Helen Godwin described the project as “a new chapter” for the region. She highlighted the collaboration between North Somerset Council, the government, Network Rail, and Great Western Railway (GWR) as instrumental. “This investment in new train stations at Pill and Portishead will help reduce congestion, provide faster and greener travel options, and unlock opportunities for new homes,” she said.
North Somerset MP Sadik Al-Hassan acknowledged residents’ cautious optimism after years of delays. “The reopening of these two stations has meant a lot to the community, despite the scepticism from past broken promises. This project has felt more like a rollercoaster than a straight train line, but seeing progress now proves what we can achieve through collaboration. I’m eager to board the first train and will continue to advocate for a successful delivery,” he stated.
Following uncertainty earlier this year when funding was briefly withdrawn, the government reaffirmed its support in July, backing the project with over £47 million. The remaining £135 million of the £182 million total cost will be covered by North Somerset Council and the West of England Combined Authority.
North Somerset Council leader Mike Bell emphasized the significance of the railway’s return. “Trains from Portishead have been awaited for a long time. With works now underway, construction set for 2026, this project is finally happening. The reopened line will connect 50,000 people back to the rail network, providing seamless journeys to Bristol Temple Meads and beyond.”
Bell added, “Beyond new stations at Portishead and Pill, travelers will enjoy the full benefits of onward connections through Temple Meads, unlocking economic potential and investment estimated at £43 million annually. This railway will transform the region’s connectivity and growth prospects.”