Rail links around Bristol could see a boost, after existing lines were considered for re-opening, features.rr reports.
In a 100-page consultation paper released by the Department for Transport, rail lines in Bristol - especially the pre-existing route from Portishead - could be reopened.
Operating under the First Great Western franchise, the reopened lines could change the city's demographic and encourage more commuters outside of the centre; something Bristol letting agents may be closely monitoring.
The announcement follows initial reports which claim that plans to reopen the Portishead line and the Henbury Loop are already in "an advanced stage".
Even if the proposed closure of numerous ticket offices go ahead, the line will still be able to run effectively; plus, local shops are set to take the mantle by selling rail tickets.
If the plans are approved, work could begin on reinstating the line in 2014; with work aimed to be completed before 2019. A decision on which lines has been approved will be delivered in December.
The proposals, reprinted on thisisbristol.co.uk suggests: "Possible contenders [for development] at this stage may include... Bristol area developments including the Portishead line reopening.
"[Plans] include introduction of smart ticketing technology; provision of telephone and internet based sales channels; and exploring the options of selling tickets from local shops."