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A PROPOSAL to open a new train station in Yate has been put forward as part of a major housing development in the town.

The suggestion from resident Michael Dollin is to build a new railway station further down the line in north Yate, in conjunction with plans for 3,000 new houses in Brimsham Park.

Mr Dollin has won support from some local councillors although the cost of a new station remains unclear.

He told the Gazette: "There are really only two main exits out of Yate by road and an overhaul of the rail system will take some of that pressure off the roads.

"A new station would allow for a turnback facility for half-hourly services between Bristol and Yate, a longer platform, increased parking improvements to the timetable."

He added: "At the moment the station is cramped, with no room for an extension or the turnback.

"If this does not go ahead and the houses are built next to the railway, Yate will forever be without an adequate train station with no land to build one on."

He claimed Network Rail had shown interest in the idea although no-one from the company was available to comment as the Gazette went to press.

Town councillor and chairman of the Friends of Yate Station, Cllr Sue Walker, said she would support plans for a new station in Yate but not the new homes.

"I don’t want to do anything that will encourage any new houses," she said. "But if we are going to have them the idea is worthy of consideration.

"Transport is going to be a major problem so it is a good idea and I would like to see a station that is attractive with adequate parking and combined with a bus service for the whole of the town."

She said an alternative location for a new train station would be on the Beeches Industrial Estate which is due to be redeveloped in the next four to five years. The issue is due to be discussed at the friends' next meeting on Monday, July 4 (7pm) at Poole Court.

Heron Land Developments, which is proceeding with plans for 3,000 homes and two new primary schools at Brimsham Park, did make mention of a new train station in its original plans. But a spokesman said the proposal was not included in the company's current plans for north Yate.

He added: "However, we are aware of the need to ensure significant improvements to public transport infrastructure in Yate, and will be focusing on contributing to improvements at the existing station, as well as bus based services, as part of our discussions with South Gloucestershire Council."