This is how much the metrobus extension scheme north of Bristol will cost

Work to extend the metrobus network will continue to move forward as funding for the project is approved.

The Cribbs Patchway extension (CPME) will link Bristol Parkway and The Mall via the Cribbs Patchway New Neighbourhood at the former Filton Airfield, the Horizon 38 development, Gipsy Patch Lane and Hatchet Road.

It will form a part of the ‘north fringe to Hengrove’ m1 metrobus route.

m1 metrobus (First West of England)

During June, Gypsy Patch Lane was closed for a month to allow preparatory work from BT to clear the way for the creation of a new bridge to allow the road to be part of the new metrobus link.

A second - larger - stage of work is set to begin in September, and culminate in a new bridge and road under the railway line which will be wide enough for the road to be part of the metrobus route.

There is also planned work to introduce signals at the San Andreas roundabout for a new bus-only arm to Cribbs Patchway New Neighbourhood, as well as bus lanes on Gipsy Patch Lane.

Walking and cycling routes and new metrobus stops are also included - with some stops already in place like the ones behind Parkway station on Hunts Ground Road.

The estimated total cost of the scheme is £56.9million.

During a West of England Combined Authority (Weca) committee meeting last month members approved the full business case and award £21.9million from Weca’s Investment Fund for the project.

South Gloucestershire Council’s cabinet agreed to officially accept the funding from Weca during its meeting on Monday (July 15) so that the project could continue to  progress.

The other £35million will initially come from South Gloucestershire Council but will be funded through borrowing. The cash will be reimbursed from the West of England Economic Development Fund, according to papers from Monday’s meeting.

A report to the authority's cabinet said: “The Scheme is needed in order to provide a fast and direct public transport route between Cribbs Causeway and Bristol Parkway Railway Station, via the Cribbs Patchway New Neighbourhood where 5,700 dwellings, 50ha of new employment, and a range of other land uses are allocated in the core strategy.

“Any further developments in this area, for example the proposed arena at Filton, would further enhance the case for this scheme.”