Western Gateway Project propose new travel plans

As part of a sub-national scheme, a range of new travel routes and modes of transport are being proposed by Western Gateway project.

The aim of this scheme is to improve transport connections across Dorset, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, and parts of Somerset. designed to improve transport access for isolated areas, with more frequent buses and potential connections to a proposed Dorset Metro rail service.

Key proposals include hourly shuttle trains between Wareham and Brockenhurst, potential changes to Poole Level Crossing, and additional cycle lanes connecting Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) to nearby councils in Dorset and Hampshire.

Other proposed travel improvements include the expansion of the Port of Poole is also part of the plans. This would support freight movement through infrastructure improvements and a cargo handling facility. The Hamworthy Branch Line would be revived to enable regular freight traffic to and from Poole Port. A new active travel route and bus corridor, is also in the plans, to connect the south-east Dorset area and BCP Council region.

The Western Gateway project is designed to strengthen regional transport infrastructure, with 38 investment ideas outlined in the Strategic Investment Plan. Funding for this scheme is provided by Department for Transport and other local authorities.

The Dorset Metro proposal aims to run hourly shuttle trains between Wareham and Brockenhurst. This would require improvements to the railway’s signalling system and could involve the closure of Poole Level Crossing. Additional upgrades are planned for Bournemouth Railway Station to increase capacity and improve the customer experience.

In Christchurch and Bournemouth town centres, there are proposals to prioritise pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport, with the goal of reducing car use and alleviating congestion. New cycle routes would link key locations, including Bournemouth Airport, the aviation park, and Wessex Fields employment sites, along with enhanced bus services.

These proposals are currently open for public consultation, with more details available on BCP Council’s "Have Your Say" page. The Strategic Transport Plan is guided by five main goals:

• Supporting sustainable growth
• Improving air quality
• Enhancing access to services
• Facilitating north-to-south movement
• Easing freight traffic

The project team hopes to have the plans approved by the Western Gateway Board by the end of March 2025.