We are pleased to publish two feasibility studies that look to increase transport connectivity across the Western Gateway STB region with strengthened coach services.
Coach Strategy (Phase 2)
Feasibility Study – Strategic Gap 2
A new feasibility study focused on improving coach connectivity along its Strategic Gap 2 corridor – linking Cheltenham, Gloucester, Stroud, Wotton-under-Edge, Thornbury, Bristol, and Bristol Airport.
The study follows the publication of our Coach Strategy in August 2023, which assessed current coach services across the region and identified opportunities for enhancement. The findings highlighted three major transport corridors (strategic gaps) as priority areas for development.
Strategic Gap 2, which is approximately 50 miles long, connects a mix of urban and rural places, and serves as a key access route to Bristol Airport. The feasibility study assesses the potential for new and improved scheduled coach services to strengthen public transport links and minimise car travel across the corridor.
Coach Strategy (Phase 3)
Feasibility Study – Strategic Gaps 1 & 3
This feasibility study examines options for better coach services along two key corridors – Strategic Gaps 1 and 3 – linking Cheltenham and Bristol with coastal destinations including Weymouth, Swanage, and Bournemouth-Christchurch-Poole.
The study also builds on the 2023 Coach Strategy, which flagged these gaps as opportunities to increase connectivity between major settlements and the Dorset coastline.
By evaluating passenger demand and potential routes, the study aims to inform future service planning, support sustainable travel, and address limitations in current rail and bus links.
Please get in touch with westerngatewaystb@westofengland-ca.gov.uk if you wish to discuss these reports in more detail, or wish to be added to our members list for our future coach forums.
