THE first phase of improvements in Muller Road is finally complete and Bristol City Council says it will seek views on the second phase early in 2024.
The finished section is on the northern half of Muller Road, from its junction with Downend Road to Lidl, including Ralph Road, Springfield Avenue, Draycott Road and Brent Road.
The new road layouts and bus lane are aimed at allowing buses to move more quickly through traffic, and enabling easier and safer walking and cycling.
The first phase of the project included:
• resurfacing Muller Road, between Downend Road and Ralph Road
• installing a 24-hour bus lane on Muller Road between Downend Road and Ralph Road, which incorporates a bus gate at the junction with Ralph Road
• upgrading five bus stops, including new shelters and waiting areas
• installing traffic signals at Ralph Road
• creating modal filters on Springfield Avenue, Draycott Road and Brent Road to stop traffic other than bicycles and scooters cutting through from Muller Road
The works are needed so that the transport system can cope with continuing housing development in Lockleaze,
Councillor Don Alexander, cabinet member for transport, said: “I’m really pleased that this phase of the Muller Road improvements are complete. It took longer than expected due to the discovery of a complex arrangement of uncharted utilities and extreme winter weather conditions. However, these works are now finished, and I would like to thank everyone for bearing with us. This upgrade will help to improve bus journeys and should make walking and cycling in the area easier and safer.
“Early in 2024, we will be asking for local views on plans for the second phase of our Muller Road improvements. This focuses on the bottom half of Muller Road, from the railway bridge by Shaldon Road down to Heath Road, and includes proposals to create sections of 12-hour bus lanes on either sides of road as well as improving infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists. The proposals will protect all trees along the route. We hope lots of people will give us their views in the new year through our survey so we can make sure our plans are right for the area.
“Making these changes is vital to make sure that our transport network is fit for an area which is seeing so much growth. It will make it easier for residents to access reliable public transport and should encourage people to walk and cycle more.”
The improvements to Muller Road are being funded from the Housing Infrastructure Fund, provided by Homes England.
The public footpath between Muller Road and Dovercourt Road will remain closed to allow for the safe redevelopment of the Brunel Ford site and the diversion of a water main that runs through the site.