Purpose

The Somer Valley Links (SVL) project aims to improve transport connectivity through investment in bus infrastructure and active travel. WECA have approved to reallocate City Regional Sustainable Transport Scheme (CRSTS) funding across the programme, to increase the Somer Valley Links allocation to £24.99m. This increase will be funded by adjustment to the delivery phasing of other CRSTS projects in the Somer Valley area.

Decision

To approve an increase of £2.33m in the Somer Valley Links allocation from £22.66m to £24.99m. This results in an uplift to FBC funding of £3.24m (from £4.10m to £7.34m) and a reduction in provisional budget held for delivery of £0.91m, all funded through reallocations within the existing CRSTS programme budget. The £2.33m uplift will be fully funded by CRSTS DfT grant and replaces match funding temporarily allocated as part of SMD E3710 dated 21st May 2026. There is no increase to the overall B&NES CRSTS allocation or match funding requirement.

Alternative options considered

To retain the current Somer Valley area phasing, which would require other projects within the B&NES CRSTS programme to be reduced or removed to remain within the available funding envelope.