Extra platforms for Bristol Temple Meads station

Bristol Temple Meads railway station could be in line for two new platforms to cope with extra demand.

Network Rail says the demand for trains in the city will increase by 44% by the end of the decade.

It believes the electrification of the London Paddington line will prompt a demand for local rail services.

The company also wants to add extra tracks between Temple Meads and Filton Abbey Wood to increase the number of services to Bristol Parkway station.

A Network Rail Western spokesman said it wanted to redevelop the land and buildings around Bristol Temple Meads as part of an integrated travel hub for the city.

It also wants to improve car parking, ease congestion and significantly improve the station environment.

The company now plans to bid for government money via the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

A LEP spokesman said the plans, combined with the electrification of the Paddington line, would add to the West of England's attractiveness as a place to do business.