The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has given the green light to the new Ashley Down railway station, which is set to open to the public on Saturday, 28 September. This new station will offer an hourly service to Bristol Temple Meads.
Ashley Down is a key component of the MetroWest rail enhancement programme, which has already seen the Henbury Line re-opened and new stations established at Henbury and North Filton. The new station is situated on the site of the former Ashley Hill Train station, which was closed in 1964.
The ORR’s approval includes the construction of two new 126-meter-long platforms, a covered footbridge with lifts and stairs connecting both platforms, shelters, signage, and additional works such as track realignment.
This authorisation marks a significant milestone in preparing new, upgraded, or renewed infrastructure like Ashley Down for operation. It ensures that standards for health and safety, accessibility, environmental protection, and reliability have been met.
From the project’s inception, ORR has collaborated with Network Rail and the West of England Combined Authority to guide them through the authorisation process, ensuring all necessary checks and surveys were completed.
Giles Turner, Head of Interoperability and Rail Vehicle Engineering at ORR, said:
“This is a significant upgrade for connectivity in and around Bristol and we look forward to seeing the station open for passengers shortly. “
"We’re pleased to have played our part in getting Ashley Down ready to open. Our team worked closely with both Network Rail and the West of England Combined Authority to support them through the authorisation process, just as we do for new trains and infrastructure across the country."
Photo credit: GWR
