A significant step forward in getting an integrated transport system for Greater Bristol was made last night (Weds 16/10) by South Gloucestershire Council. The Council meeting was held in Patchway Community College in a hall packed with angry Patchway residents. After listening to many speakers expressing their opposition the decision was taken to make the closure of Highwood Road to ordinary traffic permanent.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Pat Hockey told the meeting: “We aren’t talking about a few buses. We’re talking about integrated transport for the West of England, and a crucial part of that is the Metrobus – this is a critical part of an integrated transport system. We don’t have a plan B, we don’t have any other shovel-ready scheme. Dealing with the traffic congestion in the greater Bristol area is critical to the economic well-being of not only the whole of Bristol, but the whole of the south west. If we don’t stick with this scheme now, the decision won’t be made by any Minister for Transport, it’ll be made by the Chancellor after the next Comprehensive Spending Review. South Gloucestershire lost credibility over the tram, we can’t afford to lose any over the Metrobus. We have sympathy for the people of Patchway, and want to work with them to tackle the problems which they feel they are facing. As a result of tonight’s vote, we’re committed to doing that.”

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