Region: North Somerset

Improvements to traffic flow and pedestrian and cyclist access at a key junction on the outskirts of Bristol are to start next week. 

The planned upgrades, set for the A369 Rownham Hill junction with Bridge Road and Ashton Court, include new smart traffic signals, updated bus stops and shelters, and improved walking and cycling links with improved access to Ashton Court.   

Works will start on Monday 27 April and run for 13 weeks.  

The approved changes have been directly influenced by community feedback, which included a six-week public consultation in spring 2024, alongside further traffic monitoring and surveys.  

The junction upgrades will aim to deliver better traffic flow, bus journeys and facilities for passengers, with:  

• New smart traffic signals: These can sense traffic moving at the junction, and coordinate with other, nearby traffic lights, to help traffic move through more efficiently. The smart signals would also be able to detect approaching buses using GPS signals to give buses priority over other arms of the junction  
• Upgraded bus stops at Bridge Road and North Road: Equipped with new, modern shelters with real-time information displays, comfortable recycled plastic seating, and more spacious waiting areas  
• Improved footpaths: The shared footpath and cycleway along the Ashton Court boundary, and the footpath between the Beggar Bush Lane and North Road junctions on the north-east side of Abbots Leigh Road would be improved  
• Better crossing facilities: Crossings across Rownham Hill near Bridge Road, and at the A369 Ashton Court entrance would be modernised.  

Cllr Hugh Malyan, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport at North Somerset Council, said: “These upgrades will make it easier for people to walk, cycle and use public transport at this key junction, while also helping to keep traffic moving more efficiently. Feedback from residents has been invaluable in shaping the final design, and these works reflect the community’s priorities. We appreciate everyone’s patience while the works take place as we deliver this scheme.” 

Residents can stay up to date by:  

• Following North Somerset Council on Facebook.  
• Checking One Network for current roadworks information.  
• Find temporary bus service changes at www.travelwest.info 

The project is part of the region’s ongoing commitment to sustainable transport. This funding is ring‑fenced exclusively for bus infrastructure improvements.  

For general enquiries, residents can contact [email protected]