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- Bristol News by HANA - Edition 38
Bristol News by HANA - Edition 38
Bristol Bites: Van dwelling by the Downs
Rhidian Wynn Davies
June 13, 2025
Bristol News by HANA - Edition 38
Bristol Bites: Van dwelling by the Downs
Listen and learn. Van dwelling has become a big issue for Bristol. As previously stated in this editorial, it is up to the appropriate authorities (to whom we pay tax) to sort it out. Doing nothing is not an option. So get your backsides into gear. When The Sun newspaper latches on to the story, it’s time to get busy.
On a happier note, AI scholarships will soon be available via the University of Bristol for aspiring tech entrepreneurs. They are our future, come what may.
Less happily, measles appears to be on the rise in Bristol. The simple message is this: anti-vax clowns are always wrong. Fact.
Finally, green spots in Bedminster? What was wrong with a decent Bristol blue?
Rhidian Wynn Davies | Editor in Chief
Image by Stefan Schweihofer from Pixabay
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Databox
Busy Bristol
Bristol's business environment shows remarkable vitality, with 316,702 employees across the city experiencing 13.41% employment growth.
The entrepreneurial spirit is evidenced by 26,574 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) operating within the city, alongside 8,911 new companies formed over the past two years
The human health and social work sector is the largest employer, providing 16% of local jobs, while professional, scientific, and technical activities represent 14.34% of employment. source: Fair, Green and Thriving: Bristol’s Economic Strategy 2025 - 2035
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Bristol this weekend…
Image by Roman Grac from Pixabay
Hyper-local news articles
Dweller attacks protester as tensions flare BBC - June 12, 2025 Tensions in Bristol are escalating between residents and a van-dwelling community, highlighted by an incident involving campaigner Tony Nelson, who faces backlash for advocating the removal of vans from Durdham Down amid concerns over safety and cleanliness. While locals express frustration over the council's inaction, van-dwellers like Callum share their struggles with rising rental costs and advocate for a more harmonious coexistence. |
University of Bristol offers exciting opportunities for future tech pioneers through new AI scholarships Bristol Uni - June 9, 2025 The Spärck AI scholarships, inspired by pioneering computer scientist Karen Spärck Jones, will offer full funding for master’s degrees in artificial intelligence and STEM at nine leading UK universities, aiming to support at least 100 talented students from diverse backgrounds. With partnerships from major tech firms and industry organisations, the initiative promises valuable mentorship and work placement opportunities while covering tuition and living expenses. |
Bristol venues Wilson's and Dongnae in UK's top 100 restaurants as decided by foodie experts Yahoo News - June 11, 2025 Two Bristol restaurants, Wilsons and Dongnae, have made it onto the UK's top 100 list at the National Restaurant Awards, with Wilsons ranked 65th and Dongnae at 46th. Celebrated for their innovative menus and community-focused dining experiences, these eateries highlight the vibrant culinary scene in Bristol alongside other notable South West establishments. |
‘So much joy’: show brings Martin Parr’s low-key visits to Bristol Pride to light The Guardian - June 9, 2025 Renowned photographer Martin Parr has unveiled a new exhibition celebrating Bristol Pride, capturing the vibrant spirit of one of the UK's largest LGBTQ+ events through candid imagery since the 1980s. With a focus on inclusivity and self-expression, Parr's work highlights the festival's joyful atmosphere, featuring powerful messages and colourful characters that reflect the rich history and diversity of the community. |
Stray From The Path announce final European and UK tour Kerrang! - June 11, 2025 Stray From The Path has announced their final European and UK headline tour in support of their new album, Clockworked, before disbanding, with shows scheduled in major cities like Birmingham and London at the end of 2025. Fans can secure tickets starting June 13 as the band looks to celebrate their journey together one last time. |
Mystery green spots on Bristol road leave residents baffled BBC News - June 11, 2025 Large green spots, measuring up to 1.2 meters wide, have mysteriously appeared overnight on Greville Road in Bedminster, Bristol, leaving residents puzzled about their purpose. While some speculate they may be part of an art installation or a traffic calming measure, the Bristol City Council is currently investigating the intriguing markings. |
Iconic Bristol landmark turns 100 Bristol Uni - June 9, 2025 The Wills Memorial Building at the University of Bristol celebrates its centenary this year, featuring a special ringing of the Great George bell and a commissioned poem by Dr. Lawrence Hoo to reflect on its complex history. While honouring its architectural significance and contributions to academia, the university is also addressing the controversial legacy of its namesake family's ties to the tobacco trade and slavery through public consultations. |
Bristol tops measles cases for 2025 as South West figures rise BBC News - June 9, 2025 Bristol is facing a surge in measles cases, with 47 confirmed infections this year, representing 11% of England's total. Health officials stress the importance of MMR vaccinations, especially for children, as many have missed or opted out of their doses. |
Parts of Bristol rank among worst in England for opportunities for working class kids Bristol Live - June 11, 2025 A new report by The Sutton Trust reveals alarming disparities in opportunities for working-class youth in England, with Bristol East and South ranking among the lowest for educational and employment outcomes, while London offers significantly better prospects. The findings underscore the urgent need for government investment in education and economic opportunities for underprivileged areas. |
27 Bristol subjects in UK top 10, says Complete University Guide Bristol Uni - June 10, 2025 The Complete University Guide 2026 ranks the University of Bristol highly, with its Engineering Design course taking the top spot in the UK and several other subjects, including Social Policy and Music, achieving impressive rankings. Overall, Bristol is positioned 15th among UK universities, reflecting its commitment to educational excellence across diverse disciplines. |
Bristol in Pictures: England's T20 win and summer at the zoo BBC - June 8, 2025 Bristol is alive with excitement, from England's T20 cricket triumph over the West Indies and a celebrity match honouring David "Syd" Lawrence, to the acclaimed play "War Horse" at the Hippodrome. The city also celebrates local achievements, including a new florist business by Ukrainian refugee Alla Orekhovska and a group of teenage karting enthusiasts representing local schools in a national final. |
Smart Works Bristol – Women and Work
Smart Works is a UK charity (Charity Commission number 1213105) dedicated to helping unemployed women back to work with a fusion of flair, fashion and fun. And now Smart Works is coming to Bristol. Britain’s best city – but one that needs to do more to welcome women from all backgrounds into the workplace.
Led by the irrepressible Imogen Franklin (known as Imy), Smart Works Bristol aims to guide 1,000 Bristolian women a year, willing to work their socks off, into jobs that will earn them a decent living and supercharge their self-esteem.
Those of you with long arms and deep pockets can make it happen. The charity needs donations of high-quality workwear and, frankly, hard cash. Smart Works Bristol could well become yet another arrow in Bristol’s commendable, community-spirited quiver.
The charity needs more, though. Volunteers who can help with job interview training and stylists who can support women to dress to impress. Our major Bristol businesses (you know who you are) should now join the race to become a lead sponsor for Smart Works Bristol. To find out how to help contact Imy directly at: [email protected]
Sport
Bristol Bears
And so it ends. A season of revolutionary, rock n’ roll rugby from the Bears finished with defeat against arch rivals Bath 34-20 in the English Premiership semi-final. Bristol made a fine fist of it, but fair play to Bath – the best team in the league by some margin. Big shout-outs to some brilliant Bears players. Notably, the mercurial Randall, the fleet-footed Ibitoye and Mr Ellis Genge. The cuddliest Bear but also the most fearsome one.
Cricket
Gloucestershire face Somerset in a West Country T20 derby at Bristol’s Seat Unique derby tonight at 7pm. Try to get along. It’s always a good night out. Gloucestershire are on a bad run with bat and ball, so they will be up against it with the cider boys.
Property news
Image by Marc Corolleur from Pixabay
Bristol City Council plans to rehome tenants quicker after emergencies BBC - June 5, 2025 Bristol City Council is consulting on changes to social housing allocation, proposing to elevate tenants displaced by significant emergencies and those with health needs in priority bands. This comes after the evacuation of residents from Barton House due to severe construction faults, prompting discussions about accountability in building standards and community advocacy for better oversight. |
Bristol 'destination bar' closes year after opening after landlord 're-possessed property' Yahoo News - June 12, 2025 Goldbrick House on Park Street has permanently closed for the second time, just over a year after reopening in the former location of The Florist, which once thrived as a popular venue attracting 2,000 customers weekly. Notices indicate that the landlord has taken possession of the premises, and remaining goods must be collected by June 13, 2025, or face disposal. |
The best areas for families to buy houses in Bristol Bristol Live - June 7, 2025 Discover Bristol's top family-friendly neighbourhoods as estate agents recommend areas like Victoria Park, Westbury Park, and St George for their green spaces and quality schools, while Cliftonwood, Westbury-on-Trym, and Horfield stand out for trendy amenities and excellent educational options. These vibrant communities offer a charming mix of Victorian homes, parks, and local cafés, making them ideal for families looking to settle down. |
New plan for derelict Bristol pub that thousands drive past every day Yahoo News - June 12, 2025 The former Merchants Arms pub in Stapleton, closed since 2016, is set for redevelopment into the headquarters of health tech company Invatech Health, featuring a community café and nine bedsits, with plans submitted to Bristol City Council. The proposal aims to revitalize the derelict site, which has become an eyesore due to vandalism, gaining support from local officials and the community despite previous challenges in its viability as a public house. |
Omaze 'Hollywood Hills'-style mansion winner selling up 'at a loss' Gloucestershire Live - June 8, 2025 Lauren Keene, a 24-year-old nanny from Gloucester, became a multi-millionaire overnight after winning a stunning £3 million mansion in a Wirral Omaze house draw, complete with breathtaking coastal views and luxury amenities. Now, she's listing the exquisite property for £2.5 million, showcasing its exclusive location and impressive design by acclaimed architects Shedkm. |
The Government needs to restore social housing. Bristol Live - June 9, 2025 Bristol Central MP Carla Denyer emphasises the urgent need for government action to restore social housing in Bristol, highlighting the increasing number of families living in temporary accommodation and poor conditions. With rising homelessness and overcrowding, Green MPs are calling for immediate measures to create affordable housing solutions through the upcoming Planning and Infrastructure Bill. |
Work on major waterfront development in Bristol could start within weeks Bristol Live - June 6, 2025 Construction of 166 new homes, including 40% affordable housing, is set to begin at Baltic Wharf near Bristol's Floating Harbour by the end of July. This project, led by Goram Homes in partnership with The Hill Group and Sovereign Housing Association, aims to address local housing shortages while enhancing public spaces in the iconic area. |
What’s on in Bristol this weekend?
Sundowners at The White Lion Terrace
All photos are credited to Mark Riley unless otherwise specified.
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