Southmead interchange project

Summary

The objective was to promote sustainable modes of travel to Southmead Hospital, including walking, cycling and public transport.

Implementing sustainable mobility

At the outset of the project, Bristol City Council undertook a detailed accessibility audit of 17 locations. On the basis of scope for improvement and the emerging agenda of access to healthcare, Southmead Hospital was selected as a pilot site for interchange and access improvements.

It was identified that existing linkages between public transport and the site, and in particular travel options for getting around the site, could be improved. The North Bristol National Health Service Trust was keen to develop new access initiatives and there was an opportunity to link in with the planned Showcase bus route improvements.

Progress

The hospital site is bordered by roads with heavy traffic flows, which made it difficult for pedestrians to access the site safely. To improve this, the council created a new pedestrian crossing near to the hospital entrance. A bus stop was relocated to be nearer to the crossing to make it more convenient for bus users.

A Southmead access map was produced as part of the project, highlighting walking, cycling and bus routes to the hospital. It also included a detailed site map of the hospital and general information about travel to hospital appointments. The map was distributed to hospital staff and visitors, as well as key locations such as local doctors’ surgeries.

Outcomes

Information provision at bus stops was improved. As part of the upgrade of the 76/77 bus route to Showcase standard, electronic real-time information was installed at the stops closest to the hospital. In addition, the information provided on the access map was displayed in poster format at the stops. Display screens were introduced at key locations within the hospital to provide bus service and other transport information to staff and visitors.

Two dedicated Car Club parking bays were introduced at the hospital. Staff were able to use the vehicles as pool cars when not being used by other Car Club members.

On-site and off-site infrastructure improvements were also made, including improved walking and cycling signage and access improvements, new cycle stands and upgraded shelters for the inter-site bus service.