English seaside town to get new train station and direct route to UK city… the first in 70 years

A NEW train station could reopen in Portishead within the next two years, more than seven decades after its previous railway hub was demolished.

Portishead Railway Station opened to passengers in 1867.

The station was demolished in 1954 amid the Beeching cuts, which saw railway lines across the country axed when the network was nationalised.

While campaigners have been calling for Portishead station to reopen since the 1970s, the scheme has rapidly gained momentum thanks to the Metrowest Project.

The Portishead Line will see train stations open in both Portishead and Pill, with direct trains running from Portishead to Bristol Temple Meads.

A computer-generated image of Portishead Train Station shows a single-track railway terminal, a car park and areas of green space.

If construction work begins this summer, the railway line could reopen in 2027.

When the line does reopen, it will halve travel time between Portishead and Bristol Temple Meads.

The entire project is slated to cost £152million, with the final £30million ratified in March at the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority Committee.

Earlier this week, West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris announced the reopening of the Portishead Line.

Despite the government axing its funding in July, the scheme has been given the green light again.

Last month, North Somerset Council approved measures to begin constructing the railway line.

Although plans need final approval from the UK government before construction work can begin.

Part of the line has already been restored, with further work needed before passenger trains can run.

West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris, said: "This is a massive moment for the West of England: one that generations have eagerly waited to see.

"The Bristol & Portishead Line was a victim of historic rail cuts, but today, with a Labour government and a Labour mayor, we’re delivering the latest stage of my ‘reverse Beeching’ plan.

"I’m delighted to confirm that this project is now finally steaming ahead."

When the line reopens, it is projected to generate £43million in economic growth each year.

There are several attractions in the Somerset seaside town for holidaymakers to enjoy, including Portishead Open Air Pool.

The heated pool opened to the public in 1962 and has even curried favour with two lido experts.

Other attractions in Portishead include Battery Point where visitors can glimpse the Welsh coastline.

And the new £460million Curzon Street Station will open in Birmingham - the first of its kind in the UK in 130 years.

Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club.