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The bus lane, which was opened to general traffic in December to ease left turn congestion from Bristol Road into Queensway, will close to general traffic as Openreach constructs a large underground chamber and diverts services on the Bristol Roadside of the junction.
Openreach services are among the many utilities that run underneath our road network. These utilities services ensure that water, gas, electricity and internet can reach homes and businesses in the local area. Utilities diversions ahead of construction works are vital as they help to prevent situations where these important services can be accidentally cut off from properties.
Worle Interchange
Improvements to the Worle transport hub near McDonald’s are also set to begin the end of February, with utility work expected to take approximately eight weeks. During this period, the existing interchange will close while upgrades take place, and outbound X service buses will temporarily use the bus stop outside the Food Warehouse within the old bus lane to keep services running smoothly. This arrangement ensures bus access is maintained throughout the Openreach works and the upgrade of Worle Interchange.
Alongside utilities work, other activity is underway around the junction, including building a retaining wall and modifying the drainpipes near the Walford Avenue junction. These additional works will help get the site ready for the main Queensway improvement programme later this year and are taking place away from the carriageway.
Cllr Hugh Malyan, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport at North Somerset Council, said: “We understand that roadworks can be frustrating, and we appreciate the patience shown while this essential work is carried out. Completing these utility diversions now will help prevent additional disruption later in the programme and ensure that residents and businesses continue to receive uninterrupted digital connectivity.
“Our aim is to deliver a safer, smoother and more reliable junction for everyone travelling through the area. We encourage anyone planning a journey nearby to allow a little extra time and plan ahead while the works are underway.”
This upgrade is part of a wider programme investing in better bus travel across North Somerset, including improvements to around 150 bus stops and shelters, new hubs in key towns, and enhanced routes and facilities—all fully funded by the UK Government through the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP).
For the latest updates on the programme, visit
https://n-somerset.gov.uk/my-services/parking-travel-roads/transport-travel/bus-travel/bus-service-improvement-plan-bsip
Image: (Google Maps imagery, September 2025)