Bristol
The most prosperous large city in the UK outside London, Bristol boasts one of Britain’s most resilient economies. With a growing international reputation for innovation, creativity and environmental action, the city is currently undergoing rapid physical and demographic changes.
Bristol is the largest city in the south west and the economic hub of the south west region. Located at the heart of the West of England city region, it is home to many national and regional headquarters, two prestigious universities and the region’s key retail, cultural and health facilities. However, it also has areas of significant deprivation, which tend to be masked by the city’s overall prosperity, and the regeneration of these neighbourhoods is a key priority.
Bristol’s existing population of 416,400 – a further 178,600 currently live in the residential areas on the outskirts of the city – is projected to rise to 519,800 by 2026 when an extra 54,200 jobs and 53,800 new residents are predicted for the city. With a population that currently includes more children aged under 16 than people of pensionable age, its youthful demographic mix is set to become still younger and more diverse over the next decade.
Bristol was the only British city out of 35 contenders to make the finale of the European Green Capital Award in 2008, an achievement that underlines its commitment to become a sustainable green capital, tackling its global footprint and improving the quality of life for its residents. The development of more efficient intercity rail networks is essential to the bid to maintain and grow the city’s economy in the most sustainable way possible.
“A high-speed rail network is vital for Britain’s long term, sustainable economic and environmental future. It’s a bold and ambitious step – but needed. To be effective, a national high speed rail network must be comprehensive, linking the UK’s major cities.
To be successful the network must also be underpinned by forward planning and a commitment to investment. If we want greater rail use in the future then it’s important we start planning today for the rail network of tomorrow.”
Cllr Jon Rogers, Cabinet Member for Transport and Sustainability