A planning application for the Southern Gateway, a new transport hub within the broader Bristol Temple Quarter (BTQ) regeneration project, has been submitted to Bristol City Council in England.

The planning application is the first from the Bristol Temple Quarter LLP, formed by Homes England, Bristol City Council, and the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority.  

The proposal outlines a new transport hub featuring a separate secure cycle building, additional bus stops, improved walking and cycling routes, and a multistorey car park.

The BTQ project aims to introduce 10,000 new homes, numerous jobs, infrastructure, and public spaces across 135ha in central Bristol.

The Southern Gateway is reportedly crucial for facilitating these new features.

Currently, the area around the Temple Meads station is largely occupied by car parks, which are mainly reserved for rail staff and passengers.

By consolidating regulated parking into the Southern Gateway, areas such as the Friary, Station Approach, and the Grade I-listed Midland Shed can be redeveloped into new public spaces and travel routes.

The Southern Gateway will include a 379-space car park, accommodating both rail passengers and staff parking, with accessible spaces, electric vehicle charging, and short-stay parking.

A separate cycle hub will provide secure access for over 530 bikes, including cargo and accessible cycles.

Additionally, improvements to the Bath Road cycle path and walkway are planned.

In addition to the transport hub, Network Rail will create a new pedestrian access to the Bristol Temple Meads station.

An existing railway track will be converted into a walkway over the River Avon, enhancing access for the city's southern residents. This walkway will integrate directly with the Southern Gateway site.