Bristol Airport opens new £60m transport facility

A significant upgrade aims to enhance public transport access as passenger numbers rise.

Bristol Airport unveils new £60m transport interchange

Bristol Airport has launched its new £60m public transport interchange after 19 months of construction. This facility significantly increases the number of bus and coach stands from five to 16, allowing for around 250 daily arrivals and departures. At a ribbon-cutting ceremony, airport chief executive Dave Lees emphasized the timing of the opening, coinciding with school holiday travel. The interchange features improved drop-off and pick-up areas, a cashless payment system, expanded waiting areas, and enhanced amenities, such as a modern Marks & Spencer. Currently, only 15 percent of travelers use public transport to reach the airport, but the goal is to raise this number to 20 percent, supported by new facilities and future road upgrades.

This new facility represents a key shift for Bristol Airport as it tries to boost public transport usage. While the airport handles over 10 million passengers each year, a mere 15 percent use buses or coaches. Enhancing accessibility through investments in infrastructure may lead to increased public transport adoption among travelers. However, the airport acknowledges that road upgrades will be necessary to sustain growth, suggesting a long-term strategy that intertwines transport with community planning. This initiative highlights the ongoing evolution of transport needs in relation to airport services amid increasing passenger volumes.

Highlights

As travel demands grow, the focus on infrastructure will be key for airports seeking to modernize operations.