The Western Gateway Sub-National Transport Body (STB) has released its Strategic Investment Plan (SIP), a document detailing 38 transport projects across the region, which have been put forward for funding prioritisation by the Department for Transport. Spanning the geography from Tewkesbury to Bournemouth, the projects have been chosen as they enhance connectivity, reduce costs and support sustainable travel across the region.
The schemes, which will be delivered by the relevant transport authorities and stakeholders, include significant rail, road, and mobility initiatives. We will play a key role in convening partners and ensuring the smooth implementation of these projects.
Top ten priority schemes
Among the major proposals outlined in the SIP are:
- Rural mobility pilot projects in South East Dorset
- Long distance coach connections between Gloucestershire and Bristol
- Improvement of capacity and customer facilities at Bournemouth Station
- Additional platform and services at Westbury train station
- Improved walking, cycling and public transport connections between South East Dorset and the BCP conurbation
- Dorset Metro rail service improvements (Wareham to Brockenhurst)
- Improvements to Cheltenham Spa Station and cycle links
- Enhancements to rail services through Salisbury
- Improvements to the junction of the A303 and A350 near Warminster
- New track sections and increased train services on the Heart of Wessex rail line
The plan seeks to deliver on the objectives of the Strategic Transport Plan (STP), which was published in March 2024 and aims to strengthen transport links between major destinations while meeting housing and economic growth targets.
Collaboration and consultation
The SIP has been shaped by a year-long consultation with local authorities and key transport partners such as Network Rail and National Highways. A public consultation took place between December and February. 733 responses were received and analysed. You can read the consultation report here.
Cllr Hannah Young, SIP Project Executive said: “This ambitious document provides partners with a roadmap to create a more connected, sustainable and cost-effective transport network. These projects have been chosen because they support the region’s economic growth with aligning with local authorities housing targets.”
Adapting to changing government priorities
As the STP was originally developed under the previous Conservative government, both the SIP and STP will undergo a review to ensure they align with the priorities of the new administration.
If you have any questions about the SIP, get in touch with the team at westerngatewaystb@westofengland-ca.gov.uk
