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Abstract

This paper present extracts from Final Year University of Bristol Engineering students’ assignments in the advanced unit ‘The Future Sustainable Built Environment’. The course looked at the challenges and opportunities associated with different sectors, notably: Water, Energy, Infrastructure and Transport. The course assignment was focussed on the field of transport and the students were required to undertake a thorough review of the Transport Delivery Plan produced by the West of England Combined Authority (WECA). This document used a regional framework for a more detailed analysis of the transport challenges and possible solutions for the city of Bristol by the year 2050. In considering the needs of Bristol’s growing diverse population, students took into account: • Predicted population growth • The different socio-economic and accessibility requirements • Future climate changes, including heat waves, drought, sea level rise and flash flooding • Possible congestion associated with different transport modes • Innovations in sustainable technologies, notably the potential and challenges in meeting Net Zero targets whilst providing mass transit systems combined with active travel. From this analysis, predictions were based on the literature available and a particular focus was given to sustainability and future resilience, as well as the socio-economic impact of suggested transport solutions for the City. The students’ work covered a wide range of innovative and futuristic solutions to the transport challenges facing Bristol between now and 2050. The paper therefore summarises the collective work of the students and sets out a range of technical solutions and approaches which are worthy of wider consideration.