- Bristol News by HANA
- Posts
- Bristol News by HANA - Edition 37
Bristol News by HANA - Edition 37
Bristol Bites: Bobbies on the blink
Bristol News by HANA - Edition 37
Bristol Bites: Bobbies on the blink

Far be it from this correspondent to knock a police officer’s hat off his or her head (in time-honoured tradition), but sometimes the constabulary don’t do themselves any favours.
A study reveals that police in Bristol went to the wrong hotel to quell a violent protest against asylum seekers in 2022, leaving the admirable Mercure Hotel, its guests and staff unprotected in their hour of need. One could laugh it off as a Fawlty Towers moment. But it’s much worse than that. This was serious disorder. Riot, in fact. The police are duty bound to protect the public (wherever they may be from) and keep the peace. Not the boys and girls in blue’s finest hour.
The University of Bristol’s burgeoning reputation grows apace. Bristol has formed a partnership with Hong Kong’s University of Science and Technology. Research expertise and global reach are fast making Bristol one of the most respected academic institutions in the world.
Bristol Airport’s growth helps to burnish the city’s status as a vibrant centre for communication, notably supporting our terrific tech sector link up with like minded people in other locations. It also helps Luddites like me go on ill-deserved holidays.
Finally, tonight is a big one for our beloved Bears. A rugby Premiership semi-final against local rivals Bath for a chance to visit Twickenham for the final. Whatever the result, the Bears have produced magic moments this season and helped make Ashton Gate an awesome place in which to eat, drink and be merry. The boys in blue and white stripes are a credit to rugby and this fair, funky and fabulous city. Growl and roar.
Rhidian Wynn Davies | Editor in Chief

Temple Meads in the sunshine
Make Bristol an even better community - share Bristol by Hana with friends and family for a more informed and better run city - local news and views you can use - forward this link for instant sign up
Databox
Going For Growth
The information and communication sector exemplifies Bristol's technological transformation, experiencing a remarkable 191% increase in economic output between 2011 and 2021.
This growth reflects the city's emergence as a significant technology hub, with growing specialisms in FinTech, Quantum technologies, Clean Tech and Energy, Health and Life Sciences, and Digital AI.
The city boasts the highest density of FinTech industry startups and scale-ups outside of London, demonstrating the strength of its innovation ecosystem.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Bristol this weekend…

IKB’s masterpiece. A triumph of Victorian engineering
Hyper-local news articles

Police sent to wrong hotel during Bristol summer disorder, study finds BBC - June 4, 2025 On August 3, 2022, police in Bristol mistakenly responded to the wrong hotel during a protest against asylum seekers, leaving the Mercure Hotel unguarded as far-right protesters gathered outside. The situation escalated into one of the most violent confrontations seen in the UK in over a decade, with police describing it as "riots rather than protests" and resulting in 44 individuals sentenced for their roles in the unrest. |

Bristol Flights Boosting South West UK Tourism and Business Connectivity Travel And Tour World - June 2, 2025 Edelweiss Airlines has launched a direct flight from Zurich to Bristol Airport, operating twice weekly, enhancing travel convenience and boosting tourism in the South West of England. This new route is expected to significantly benefit the local economy by increasing visitor arrivals and fostering cultural exchanges between Switzerland and the region. |

University of Bristol formalises partnership with The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Bristol Uni - June 4, 2025 The University of Bristol has become the first UK institution to join HKUST's Global Knowledge Network, following a memorandum signed by Vice-Chancellor Professor Evelyn Welch. This partnership aims to boost international research collaboration and academic exchange, leading to more joint publications, research grants, and innovative degree programs. |

Bristol boy, 11, starts business to fund koi pond dream BBC News - May 31, 2025 Eleven-year-old James from Emersons Green turned his dream of a koi pond into reality by launching a successful woodworking business, crafting and selling wooden planters and other items. With the support of his parents, he quickly gained popularity in his community, leading to an overwhelming demand for his creations. |
Major international event coming to Bristol's Debenhams building Yahoo News - June 2, 2025 Secret Walls is set to thrill Bristol on Saturday, June 7, with a one-night-only live paint battle at Shredenhams, the city's new skatepark and cafe. With free entry, live music, and interactive mural opportunities, attendees are encouraged to arrive early for this vibrant night of creativity and competition! |

Bristol Airport welcomes new emergency response vehicle BBC News - June 3, 2025 Bristol Airport has bolstered its emergency response capabilities with the acquisition of a cutting-edge Oshkosh Striker ARFF vehicle, capable of reaching speeds up to 72 mph and equipped with advanced technology like infra-red imaging cameras. This new addition ensures the airport's fire service can respond swiftly to emergencies, enhancing safety for all passengers. |

The Knowledge is axed in Bristol after only eight taxi drivers pass 'outdated' test Mail Online - June 1, 2025 Bristol City Council has abolished the long-standing Knowledge test for taxi drivers, citing its irrelevance in the age of satellite navigation and a need to remove barriers to entry. This reform aligns with new Department for Transport guidelines that emphasise safety training over topographical knowledge, as the taxi industry faces significant challenges in both Bristol and London. |

Bristol Rovers Women sign Chloe Gilroy from A.F.C. Bournemouth Chloe Gilroy has joined Bristol Rovers after a standout season with AFC Bournemouth, where she scored 8 goals and helped secure the Division One South West title. Excited to enhance her leadership skills in a supportive environment, Chloe emphasises the importance of teamwork and resilience, while manager Nathan Hallett-Young highlights her goal-scoring ability and competitive spirit as key assets for the squad. |

War erupts in UK’s ‘caravan city’ as van-dwellers torch rival homes & turn hippy paradise into rat-plagued ‘no-go zone’ The Sun - May 31, 2025 Residents near Bristol's Durdham Downs are voicing their outrage over the growing issues linked to a high number of van dwellers, citing problems like drug dealing and unsanitary conditions. A petition for stricter parking regulations has gained nearly 6,500 signatures, as locals push for solutions to ensure safety and cleanliness in the community. |

Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Teesside And other UK Airports Revolutionize Travel Security Allowing Larger Liquids Travel And Tour World - June 2, 2025 Several UK airports, including Birmingham, Bristol, and Edinburgh, are enhancing security with advanced 3D CT scanners that allow travellers to carry up to 2 litres of liquids in hand luggage, streamlining the screening process and reducing wait times. However, travellers should check their airport's capabilities, as some major airports like Heathrow and Manchester still have the 100ml liquid limit in place due to implementation delays. |

New £15m Bristol regional cycling hub plans submitted BBC News - May 30, 2025 Bristol City Council has proposed a £15 million Regional Cycling Hub on Henacre Open Space in Lawrence Weston, featuring a 1km competition track and facilities for new cyclists. This ambitious project aims to replace the existing Bristol Family Cycling Centre and enhance cycling opportunities across the region. |

Research shows rivers release ancient carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, uncovering a greater role for plants and soil in the carbon cycle Bristol - June 4, 2025 A groundbreaking study from the University of Bristol, published in Nature, reveals that ancient carbon stores are leaking into the atmosphere more than previously estimated, prompting plants and shallow soils to absorb an additional gigatonne of CO₂ annually. This research highlights the crucial role of river systems in the global carbon cycle, revealing that over half of their emissions originate from long-term carbon sources rather than recent plant growth. |

Professor Dann Mitchell and Dr Eunice Lo
Influential climate scientists land prestigious Royal Meteorological Society awards Bristol Uni - June 4, 2025 Dr. Eunice Lo, a Research Fellow at the Cabot Institute for the Environment, received the prestigious L.F. Richardson Award for her impactful research on heat-related health risks. At the same time, she and Professor Dann Mitchell were recognised with the RMetS Award for Impact 2024 for their contributions to climate change and health. Their collaborative work aims to enhance policy responses to meteorological challenges, highlighting the critical intersection of climate science and public health. |
Sport
Bristol Bears
So it comes down to this. The Bears visit arch rivals Bath at The Rec for a semi-final tonight for a place in the English Rugby Premiership play-off final at Twickenham to see who will be crowned champions. Bristol secured their berth thanks to a brilliant but, occasionally, nail-biting 52-26 win against Harlequins. Ellis Genge returns to the front row for the Bears, while fans will hope that the likes of Randall and Ibitoye can sprinkle some stardust on this West Country Clash of the Titans.
Cricket
Gloucestershire travel to Southampton tonight to face Hampshire Hawks in the T20 Blast, having been shot down by Kent Spitfires in their previous fixture. Somerset go to Sussex to Suffolk Sharks. Let’s hope they don’t get bitten on the backside.
Property news

Bristol City Council plans to rehome tenants quicker after emergencies BBC - June 5, 2025 Bristol City Council is proposing changes to social housing allocations, allowing displaced tenants to move up a band level due to emergencies and automatically elevating individuals with significant health needs to band two. This comes after the evacuation of residents from Barton House, raising concerns about building standards and leaving many families distressed over impending relocations and the quality of construction oversight. |
Innovative Net Zero Social Housing Project Breaks Ground in Bristol – FM Industry FM Industry - June 2, 2025 AtkinsRéalis's EDAROTH initiative is set to deliver 25 net-zero homes in Bristol, utilising off-site manufacturing to create affordable housing rapidly and sustainably. This pilot project, part of the UN Habitat Climate Smart Cities challenge, aims to address the national housing crisis while enhancing community living spaces, with completion expected by Spring 2026. |
Bristol build-to-rent scheme’s better-than-expected success shows resilient demand, says developer Grainger has reported impressive results from its second build-to-rent scheme in Bristol, surpassing expectations with high occupancy rates and rental income. This success underscores the growing demand for quality rental properties and reaffirms Grainger's commitment to expanding its portfolio of sustainable living spaces across the UK. |
'I tried Bristol's first immersive role play village and fell in love with it' Yahoo News - June 1, 2025 Discover Pinkmans Café in the immersive Pickle Street village of South Bristol, where delicious treats meet imaginative play! With themed areas like a theatre and pizza takeaway, it's the perfect spot for kids to explore while parents unwind with a coffee. |

‘Upside-down' house in 'eclectic' Bristol community is up for sale Bristol Live - June 1, 2025 Discover a unique upside-down house in Bristol's St Werburghs, on the market for £510,000, featuring two bedrooms and an open-plan living space that leads to a balcony with stunning views. This eco-friendly home, part of a community-led self-build initiative, offers a secluded garden, off-street parking, and easy motorway access, all while providing excellent stargazing opportunities in a charming, light-free environment. |

One of UK's 'poshest suburbs' where you can buy a property for £160k Express.co.uk - May 31, 2025 Stoke Bishop, a prestigious UK suburb with average property prices soaring to £832,090, still offers affordable options like a one-bedroom apartment for £160,000 and a charming duplex for £220,000. Recent data reveals varying property values across local postcodes, indicating a trend of rising prices in the area, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking both luxury and accessibility. |
These 23 Bristol businesses are currently up for sale in June 2025, including Clifton Arcade Explore the exciting opportunity to invest in one of 23 businesses for sale in Bristol, featuring iconic locations like Clifton Arcade and a diverse range of restaurants, pubs, and retail shops. Whether you're looking for a well-established enterprise or a fresh venture, Bristol's vibrant economy offers something for every prospective owner. |

Government heritage chiefs issue warning over Bristol Temple Island building plans Business Live - June 3, 2025 Historic England has urged Bristol City Council to revise the Temple Island development plans, citing concerns over tall structures that could overshadow the iconic Grade I-listed Temple Meads Station. With a proposed £350 million project set to include 520 homes and commercial spaces, officials emphasise the need for designs that protect the station's historic character and architectural significance. |
What’s on in Bristol this weekend?

Sundowners at The White Lion Terrace
All photos are credited to Mark Riley unless otherwise specified.
This newsletter was partly curated and summarised by AI agents, who can make mistakes. Check all vital information.
For any issues or inaccuracies, please notify us here
View our AI Ethics Policy
Reply