Labour MP Dan Norris arrested over rape and child abuse allegations

The Guardian - April 5, 2025

Labour MP Dan Norris has been suspended following his arrest on suspicion of serious sexual offences, including rape and child sex crimes, with allegations dating back to the 2000s. As the investigation by Avon and Somerset Police continues, the Labour Party has removed his whip in the House of Commons.

Read more at The Guardian (3 mins)

Tensions rise at one of the UK's biggest van-dwelling sites

BBC - April 11, 2025

Tension in Bristol is rising as its van-dwelling community grows from 150 to 680 residents, prompting the council to propose a permanent site amid concerns over litter and anti-social behaviour. Van-dwellers like Flora Sidebottom share the struggles of evictions and financial hardship, highlighting the broader issues of community well-being and the treatment of marginalised people.

Read more at BBC (3 mins)

Artist draws Bristol’s pubs to celebrate ‘one of the best things’ about Britain

The Independent - April 6, 2025

Artist Frank Morris, inspired by the Victorian architecture of Bristol and his love for local pubs, is creating a book featuring his intricate drawings of these iconic establishments. Through his on-site sketches, he celebrates the vibrant social hubs that pubs represent, highlighting the unique character of Bristol's drinking spots.

Read more at The Independent (4 mins)

Scientists make water-repellent breakthrough to replace toxic ‘forever chemicals’

Bristol Uni - April 8, 2025

Researchers from the University of Bristol, Hirosaki University, and Université Côte d'Azur have developed a groundbreaking non-toxic alternative to harmful fluorine-based substances, using carbon and hydrogen to replicate their unique properties. After a decade of research, they are now focused on creating commercially viable substitutes while collaborating with French companies.

Read more at Bristol Uni (2 mins)

Bristol man found guilty of murder following city stabbing

BBC News - April 9, 2025

Shakawan Siddiqi, 32, has been convicted of murdering Kunta Ceesay, 25, after a dispute over money escalated into a fatal stabbing on Stapleton Road in Bristol. Despite initially denying his involvement, Siddiqi later admitted to the act but claimed self-defence. The jury ultimately found him guilty of murder.

Read more at BBC News (2 mins)

Bristol woman said being husband's carer is 'like being invisible'

BBC - April 10, 2025

Dorothy Cook and Sherene Snowdon, two devoted caregivers from the UK, share their struggles of feeling "invisible" after enduring years without respite care while caring for their husbands with serious health issues. Their stories highlight the urgent need for better support and resources for caregivers, as their own health deteriorates under the strain of caregiving.

Read more at BBC (4 mins)

£90m investment to make half of Bristol's buses electric

Yahoo News - April 9, 2025

The UK Government is investing £20 million to enhance public transport in the West of England, enabling First Bus to introduce 160 new electric buses in Bristol and Bath as part of a broader £37 million initiative. This effort aims to electrify nearly half of the fleet by next summer, improve air quality, and support local economies through cleaner, more efficient bus services.

Read more at Yahoo News (5 mins)

Bristol in Pictures: Funderworld, Lionesses and jazz brunches

BBC News - April 6, 2025

Spring is in full swing in Bristol with the return of Funderworld amusement park and a stunning display of daffodils, while the England Lionesses triumphed over Belgium 5-0 at Ashton Gate. In community news, Sue Green celebrated her final fitness class after 37 years, and a new family hub, "Martin's House," has opened at King's Oak Academy, enhancing local support for families.

Read more at BBC News (2 mins)

Bristol City fans to walk 130 miles to a match for dementia charity

BBC - April 4, 2025

Bristol City fans Phil Thomas and Simon Jones are taking on a 130.7-mile walk from Ashton Gate to QPR's Loftus Road stadium, raising £10,000 for Dementia UK in memory of loved ones affected by the illness. Their six-day journey, starting on 12 April, will follow a scenic route, highlighting their commitment to both awareness and fundraising for dementia care.

Read more at BBC (2 mins)

New primary and secondary schools on edge of Bristol to be 'among largest in England'

Yahoo News - April 9, 2025

New primary and secondary schools in Lyde Green, set to open in the 2026/27 academic year, will feature sustainable construction methods and accommodate a total of 1,320 students. With a project cost of £58.3 million, these schools aim to provide a high-quality learning environment while minimising environmental impact and energy costs.

Read more at Yahoo News (3 mins)

Bristol quantum start-up developing next generation motion sensing technology secures £4m funding

Bristol Uni - April 8, 2025

Zero Point Motion, a startup founded by Dr Lia Li and rooted in the University of Bristol's quantum technology ecosystem, is revolutionising precision motion sensing with ultra-sensitive sensors that are 100 times more effective than traditional MEMS. Backed by significant funding and industry recognition, including a £1.3 million investment from the UK's Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, the company aims to set new global standards in motion sensing technology for critical applications like defence and aerospace.

Read more at Bristol Uni (3 mins)

LondonMetric expands Bristol portfolio with £74m logistics assets

Real Assets - April 10, 2025

Sign up for free today to unlock exclusive content, including insights into International Political Economy (IPE). Don't miss this chance to enhance your knowledge and stay informed on a variety of topics!

Read more at Real Assets (1 min)

Bristol among best places to sell as properties continue to sell fast

Bristol Live - April 6, 2025

Bristol has secured the fifth spot in a recent report on the best UK cities for selling property, with homes averaging just 51 days on the market despite economic challenges. The city's resilient housing market boasts a median asking price of £350,000, requiring prospective buyers to earn over £70,000 annually to afford an average home.

Read more at Bristol Live (2 mins)

Property investment firm snaps up ‘post-modernist’ 1980s Bristol office complex

Thebusinessdesk - 

A Grade II-listed office complex, 200 Aztec West, located on the outskirts of Bristol, has been acquired, showcasing the ongoing demand for commercial real estate that blends historical significance with modern functionality. Details about the buyer and future plans remain undisclosed, but the transaction underscores the appeal of quality office spaces in prime locations.

Read more at Thebusinessdesk (1 min)

Seneca Property says ‘we have £25m to deploy’ as it acquires Bristol's 200 Aztec West in growth drive

Business Live - April 8, 2025

Seneca Property has made its first investment in the South West by acquiring the 200 Aztec West office complex in Bristol, a 46,000 sq ft property generating over £800,000 annually with only two suites vacant. This acquisition aligns with Seneca's strategy of investing in high-quality, strategically located assets as part of its growing £100m portfolio across the UK.

Read more at Business Live (2 mins)

Bristol landlord fined £6,000 after 19 breaches discovered in flat

Yahoo News - April 10, 2025

A Bristol landlord has been fined £6,000 for multiple licensing breaches, including serious fire safety violations and property maintenance issues, as part of the city's initiative to improve private-rented housing standards. Since its launch in 2009, this scheme has enhanced nearly 3,000 homes and aims to ensure all Houses in Multiple Occupation are properly licensed, with fees reinvested to benefit both tenants and landlords.

Read more at Yahoo News (3 mins)