Plans to minimise parking issues near Bristol Arena

Plans are in place to tackle possible parking problems in neighbourhoods around Bristol Arena, the project's boss has said.

The arena, due to open in 2028, is being built by Malaysian firm YTL at the centre of the Brabazon development in Filton. The firm recently announced plans to increase the arena's capacity from 17,000 to 19,500 - sparking concerns about parking.

Bristol City Council was urged last month to carry out transport surveys ahead of the arena opening, over fears of a flood of cars on nearby residential roads.

Andrew Billingham, the arena's chief executive, said he "understands the concerns raised" but the firm is committed to "minimising any impact on neighbouring communities".

Developers at YTL have this week revealed plans for a large public square next to the proposed new railway station, to be called called Station Square.

In documents shared by the firm, the land north of the station is described as a "flexible open space" where, on days where there are not events at the arena, markets could be held.

On event days, the square has been designed to hold up to 1,500 people in queuing lanes for those hoping to use the station.

The Filton arena was first announced in 2018 but its opening has already been delayed multiple times.

Plans include creating an outdoor cinema, ice rink and sports courts, as well as 6,500 homes across the wider site.

A new railway station able to accommodate five-carriage trains with up to 582 passengers is due to be built near to the arena.

A 1,600 space car park next to the arena, a shuttle bus from the city centre and dedicated park-and-ride schemes will also be in operation, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Mr Billingham said YTL was investing heavily to "promote sustainable transport and reduce reliance on cars".

"Our commitment is to ensure that concert-goers and visitors can travel to and from the arena efficiently while minimising any impact on neighbouring communities," he said.

"We are committed to monitoring parking levels in surrounding areas and will work with local authorities to address any potential issues."

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