A crucial road in Bristol’s city center is set to close for essential repairs. Union Street will be temporarily inaccessible on Tuesday, May 26, between 8 AM and 5 PM. This closure affects nearly the entire stretch of the road, from Castle Park to St James’ Park.
Details of the Union Street Closure
The Bristol City Council has announced the closure to facilitate urgent patch repairs. The affected segment runs between the junctions of Wine Street and Broadmead.
Traffic Diversions in Effect
During this closure, diversions will be implemented, affecting both eastbound and westbound traffic.
- Westbound traffic will be rerouted via The Pithay, All Saints Street, Nelson Street, Broadmead, and back to Union Street.
- Eastbound traffic will need to follow a longer route around the Shopping Quarter. The diversion includes Newgate, Broad Weir, Lower Castle Street, Castle Street, A4044 north, Bond Street, The Haymarket, Bridewell Street, Nelson Street, Broadmead, and finally Union Street.
Impact on Public Transportation
Many bus services will also experience significant changes due to the closure. According to First Bus:
- Services 1, 2, 2a, and 72 towards Park Street will operate to Wine Street before diverting to Newgate, Broad Weir, and Lower Castle Street, continuing to Old Market Roundabout and Bond Street before resuming routes from Rupert Street.
- Services heading towards Temple Meads will maintain their regular routes.
- Services 3, 4, and 8 will also alter their paths, with some terminating at Union Street bus stop B12.
Future Developments in the Area
This urgent repair work is separate from a broader initiative to enhance roads around Broadmead. The upcoming project aims to increase pedestrianised areas, add over a kilometer of separated cycle lanes, and improve public transport options.
The Bristol City Council is currently preparing its business case for this comprehensive upgrade, which will be submitted to the West of England Combined Authority for funding consideration. Work on the Broadmead area is anticipated to commence next year.
