18 November 2025
Bus Route 2
Proposals for the central section of the route – from Queens Road to College Green – include introducing wider pavements, new cycle paths, extended bus lanes, and a series of new public spaces.
The plans show that drivers would still be able to access Park Street via St George’s Road, where they could travel up or down the road and exit in the normal way. However, through traffic would be fed along Park Row or Anchor Road, to make Park Street a more pleasant environment and encourage people to spend more time supporting the businesses.
The changes aim to increase the number of trips made by bus, walking, wheeling and cycling by speeding up bus journey times and making active travel safer and easier, while encouraging people to spend more time in the area by creating new and inviting public spaces.
These updated proposals have been submitted to the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, to request the funding to build the scheme. If approved, the council would then hold a statutory consultation on the plans.
Depending on the outcome of this process, work could start on site in summer 2026 and take around 18 months. It would be completed in phases to reduce disruption.
In the meantime, some elements of the scheme are being refined based on suggestions from local businesses, residents and key stakeholders. This includes allowing some residents and businesses who have older vehicles to drive through the proposed bus gate at the top of Park Street for the first year after it is introduced, to avoid the Clean Air Zone. Other adjustments are also being considered.
Councillor Ed Plowden, Chair of the Transport and Connectivity Committee, said:
“The regeneration of Park Street, Queens Road and the Triangle is a bold investment in Bristol’s future.
“This project will create vibrant public spaces, support local businesses, and improve access through better walking, cycling and bus routes. These streets are not just high streets – they are cultural, historic and civic landmarks at the heart of our city.
“By prioritising public realm improvements and managing traffic impacts, we can deliver a welcoming environment that attracts visitors, boosts the economy, and keeps Park Street open for all.
“With an expected £16 million uplift to the economic output and nearly 500 new jobs, this is about giving more to the people of Bristol while safeguarding what makes this area so special.”
Work on the number 2 bus route has started nearby, including upgrading the College Green and Canons Road junction, which was brought forward as the traffic lights were outdated and likely to fail.
Construction work, to prevent flooding and create cycling routes and more accessible pavements, also started on a stretch of Whiteladies Road in July 2025.