Bristol economy set to get power up thanks to Bristol Temple Meads station improvements

Businesses in Bristol will benefit from a £10.2m upgrade of Bristol Temple Meads station with much of the money set to be spent on local companies.

Network Rail is completely rewiring the station to bring the electrical system up to modern standards with SSE Enterprise Contracting delivering the work and agreeing to use local labour, supply chains and businesses as part of their work. 

As well as rewiring the station, work will also take place to renew the heating, cooling and ventilation systems as well as upgrading the lighting to energy efficient LEDs which will help make the station a brighter and greener environment.

The improvements are the latest step in the Bristol Rail Regeneration programme with work on the rewire set to start this October. It is expected to be completed in 2023 alongside the restoration of the Victorian main train shed roof and platform canopies. 

Plans are also underway for further platform enhancements including the installation of new customer information screens, upgraded public announcement systems, additional CCTV and the introduction of a free WiFi network for passengers to use throughout the station. 

Maxine Prydderch, Network Rail project manager, said: “It’s really exciting to see further investment being made at Bristol Temple Meads station which supports the wider Bristol Rail Regeneration programme that kicked off earlier this year.

“SSE Contracting have undertaken a number of similar projects in other stations across the UK so they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table and we can’t wait to get stuck in and start working with them on this brilliant project.

“As well as modernising the station’s electrical system, the rewire will also benefit passengers as it may allow for potential future expansion of retail units within the station itself, in turn generating further jobs.”

Allan Walker, SSE Enterprise Contracting, route delivery manager, said: “We are delighted to be part of a project as prestigious as Bristol Temple Meads station, affording SSE Enterprise Contracting the opportunity to develop and invest in the local community whilst delivering the project on behalf of one of our longest standing clients within Network Rail Western.” 

For more information about the Bristol Rail Regeneration programme, please visit https://www.networkrail.co.uk/running-the-railway/our-routes/western/bristol-rail-regeneration/  

Photo credit: Network Rail

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