Programme Details

Bristol Council to Provide Temporary Sites for Van Dwellers

Bristol city council is set to open temporary sites for individuals living in vehicles, focusing on affluent neighbourhoods. This initiative aims to provide pitches on plots of land that are awaiting development, known as "meanwhile sites."

The Bristol city council's decision to allocate temporary sites for vehicle dwellers in wealthier areas marks a shift from previous practices. Traditionally, such sites have been located in less affluent parts of the city. The council's new approach seeks to distribute these sites more equitably across different neighbourhoods, ensuring that all areas contribute to accommodating vehicle dwellers.

The initiative involves the use of "meanwhile sites," which are plots of land that are not currently in use but are slated for future development. By utilising these spaces, the council aims to provide a temporary solution for those living in vehicles, offering them a place to stay while longer-term plans are developed.

Timeline

The council plans to implement this initiative by the spring, with the goal of providing a substantial number of pitches for vehicle dwellers. This timeline reflects the council's commitment to addressing the needs of this community promptly. The decision to focus on affluent areas is part of a broader strategy to ensure that all parts of the city share the responsibility of supporting vehicle dwellers.

As the council moves forward with this plan, it will continue to identify suitable sites and work with local communities to facilitate the integration of these temporary pitches. The initiative represents a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by vehicle dwellers in Bristol.

Story inspired by reporting from The Guardian.