Bristol News by HANA - Edition 68
Bristol Bites: Culture Clash
From our Editor:
On Tuesday, Bristol City Council members will debate whether to submit an expression of interest to become the UK’s next City of Culture.
It’s a civic honour (and commitment) that only comes around every four years, so any bid would apply to 2029 (the last City of Culture was Bradford in 2025).
The process is quite lengthy (please don’t read the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s official guidance on bidding - it runs to about a million words).
Here’s the snapshot:
8 February: deadline for expressions of interest.
Late March: long-listed places announced.
Summer: deadline for long-listed places to make full applications.
Autumn: short-listed places announced.
Winter: winner announced.
The winner’s delivery year will run from January to December 2029.
There is a top prize of £10 million in funding up for grabs. So which other places could Bristol be up against? Contenders are thought to include Ipswich, Plymouth, Portsmouth and Wrexham. Brizzle should be able to beat off competition from that quartet. But it needs to get its bid spot on. And the council needs to lead from the front. This is an 11 month process. Hard miles, so our local authority needs to be at its best. Cross-party support for a bid would be a good start.
If Bristol wins, the joys of our museums, galleries, theatres and street art (not to mention balloons and famous boats) will be showcased to the rest of Britain and beyond. I think most Bristolians would agree that a successful bid would set the city buzzing like never before.
Rhidian Wynn Davies | Editor in Chief
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Databox
This week, we focus on housing.
Net additions to the housing stock per 1,000 stock.
Bristol 6, close to the national local authority average of 7 in 2025.
First-time mortgage buyer sales per 1,000 stock.
Bristol 14.2, way higher than the national local authority average of 10.5 in 2024.
Number of guest nights at a short-term let.
Bristol 184,660, vastly more than the national local authority average of 28,550 in Q2 of 2025.
Average length of stay in a short-term let.
Bristol 3.2 nights, exactly the same as the national local authority average in Q2 2025.
Conclusions? Mortgage sales suggest young people want to live in Bristol. Short-term let figures show huge numbers of folk want to visit Bristol. The positive impact on our local economy is immense. Sometimes the data delivers a good news story.
Source: Office for National Statistics
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Bristol this weekend…
Best Articles From Bristol This Week
as chosen by our editors
Bristol could get £10m if UK City of Culture 2029 bid succeeds BBC News - January 13, 2026 Bristol is poised to submit a bid for the UK City of Culture 2029, with hopes of securing £10 million to enhance its arts scene and tackle inequality through cultural initiatives. City councillors will vote on the expression of interest on January 20, aiming to foster stronger communities and civic pride while attracting visitors and promoting lasting change. |
Frozen Waves Crackle Through UK Surf Park (Video) Surfer - The Wave Bristol, Europe's first commercial Wavegarden Cove wave pool, is temporarily closed due to freezing temperatures that have caused ice formation on its surface. This unusual weather highlights the challenges faced by outdoor recreational facilities in adapting to extreme climate conditions while striving to deliver year-round surfing experiences. |
Police officer reached 93mph in fatal Bristol city centre car chase, court told The Guardian - January 9, 2026 Matthew Pike, a 40-year-old police officer, is on trial for causing death by dangerous driving after a high-speed pursuit in Bristol that led to a fatal collision involving Dr. Keryl Johnson. Prosecutors argue that while the driver being pursued was primarily responsible, Pike's excessive speed of 93mph also contributed to the tragic outcome. |
Second man arrested after cyclist killed in Bristol hit-and-run BBC News - January 12, 2026 A second suspect has been arrested in a hit-and-run incident that killed a cyclist in Bedminster, Bristol, following the arrest of a man in his 20s for dangerous driving and other offenses. Both suspects are now in police custody as investigations continue. |
Bristol's 17 safest areas where the fewest crimes were reported in November 2025 Avon and Somerset Police have released the latest crime rate statistics for Bristol neighbourhoods, aiming to inform residents about local safety trends and promote community engagement. For further updates, residents are encouraged to subscribe to the free BristolWorld newsletter. |
Bristol's 17 most dangerous areas where the most crimes were reported in November 2025 Avon and Somerset Police has released updated crime rate data for Bristol neighbourhoods, offering residents key insights into local safety trends. Stay informed about crime and community developments by subscribing to the free BristolWorld newsletter, which delivers the latest news directly to your inbox. |
Bristol man jailed for importing £200k worth of cannabis BBC News - January 13, 2026 Jamie Ivers, a 34-year-old from St George, Bristol, has been sentenced to three years and nine months in prison for importing £200,000 worth of cannabis from the US. His conviction, which includes multiple charges of possession with intent to supply, is expected to reduce the availability of the drug in East Bristol, according to local law enforcement. |
Twenty CCTV cameras planned for 'Wild West' Railway Path Bristol Live - January 15, 2026 The Bristol & Bath Railway Path is set to enhance safety with a £1 million initiative funded by the West of England Combined Authority, which includes the installation of 20 new CCTV cameras in response to rising crime and safety concerns from users. Despite a significant increase in reported incidents, particularly anti-social behavior, a full business case for the project was only submitted just before Christmas 2025, with funding decisions expected soon. |
Man dies in collision with car on A4174 in Longwell Green BBC News - January 15, 2026 A young boy's severe flu complications have led to his need for a pacemaker, emphasising the virus's risks, while in Bristol, efforts are underway to restore neglected buildings and enhance local arts funding. Additionally, the opening of the Spitfire Hangar aims to attract visitors amid political turmoil following Jenrick's sacking and defection. |
Bristol Birdman back as appeal for sponsors launched Yahoo News - January 16, 2026 The Bristol Birdman competition returns to the harbourside on June 14, inviting teams to launch creative flying machines for a chance to soar across the city docks while raising funds for Grassroot Communities. With aspirations to expand into a global series by 2026, this whimsical event promises excitement and community spirit, drawing in both spectators and sponsors alike. |
Cancellation of MP’s visit to Bristol school ‘unacceptable’, says Phillipson The Independent - January 15, 2026 Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson condemned the cancellation of Jewish MP Damien Egan's visit to Bristol Brunel Academy, citing pressure from pro-Palestinian activists as "shocking and unacceptable." Amidst an urgent Ofsted inspection prompted by the incident, Chief Inspector Sir Martyn Oliver emphasised the need to combat discrimination in education. |
'Building fire' breaks out in city centre Bristol Live - January 15, 2026 On January 15, fire crews responded to a reported building fire in Bristol's College Green area, temporarily closing the A4018 due to smoke concerns. Fortunately, upon arrival, firefighters found no evidence of a fire, confirming it was a false alarm, and the road has since reopened. |
Sport
Bristol Bears
Bonkers match. But if you let the Bears go bonkers they usually win. Bristol are the most entertaining rugby team on the planet.
This was billed as the Bulls vs the Bears, which sounds more like a clash of stock market strategies than a game of rugby. And yet, this was definitely a game of rugby. The Bulls score 49 points? No problem. Bristol will simply, yet spectacularly, score 61. At altitude on the Highvelt in Pretoria.
Mr Bristol (Ellis Genge) came on after 40 minutes. He must have been puffing like a steam train. LRZ was injured so topped up his Hollywood suntan from the sidelines. Mullet van Rensburg stuck in a try-scoring shift. Proper player.
Wing Noah Heward scored an incredible hat-trick of tries. Not bad for a fringe squad member. Ravouvou weighed in with two touchdowns of his own on the opposite wing. Bristol were blisteringly brilliant. They must have enjoyed the flight back. The Bulls had 10 Springboks on the pitch. The Bears had Genge and his gang gasping for air but winning at a country canter. Bristol are class.
Three wins out of three in the European Champions Cup for the Bears. They are already through to the last 16. But Bordeaux Begles are next up at Ashton Gate on Sunday. The French side are very good. In fact, very, very good. The maths are fiendish. But, basically, a win sees Bristol secure a home draw in the last 16. Here’s hoping.
Bristol City
Emil Riis scored a stunning hat-trick to help City smash Watford 5-1 in the FA Cup third round at Ashton Gate last Saturday. A fantastic win against a team four places above them in the Championship.
The only downside was the attendance. Barely above 13,000 for a 3pm kick off. Clearly, Watford fans didn’t fancy the trip west. A poor showing from The Hornets, both on the pitch and in the stands. The stingers stung.
The fourth round sees The Robins pitted against Port Vale away (3pm 14 February). Vale Park is a decent ground and can squeeze in 17,000 spectators. Let’s hope as many City fans as possible potter up to The Potteries.
Next, though, The Robins travel to Oxford United in the Championship (3pm tomorrow). The U’s are hopeless and lie second bottom in the table. Three points, please, City.
Bristol Rovers
Having failed to make the third round of the FA Cup, The Pirates crashed out of the EFL Trophy third round against Plymouth Argyle on Tuesday night. Rovers managed to squander a 2-1 halftime lead to lose 4-3 to The Pilgrims at home. Plymouth’s winner came in the 94th minute. Ouch.
Back to the bread and butter of League Two. The Pirates’ next opponents are Colchester United tomorrow at 3pm. The visiting U’s are 11 places above Rovers in the table. Let’s pray for no more misery at The Mem.
Property news
News | Burges Salmon completes 'largest ever' Bristol city centre office letting Costar - UK law firm Burges Salmon has renewed and extended its lease for its Bristol headquarters, marking the largest deal of its kind in the area and reflecting confidence in the region's economic prospects. This move highlights the firm's commitment to its central location and aligns with industry trends towards flexible workspaces. |
Muse appointed as development partner for Bristol Temple Quarter UK Property Forums - January 12, 2026 Bristol Temple Quarter has selected Muse as its development partner to transform the Temple Meads West and St Philip’s Marsh areas, aiming to deliver 10,000 new homes and vibrant public spaces by 2027. This ambitious initiative, supported by key public sector partners, focuses on creating a sustainable and inclusive destination for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. |
Urgent calls to stop plans to replace South Bristol running track with housing Yahoo News - January 13, 2026 Bristol Labour councillors are advocating to preserve Whitchurch Athletics Track amid plans for housing development, highlighting its significance for local sports and community health. They urge the Green-led council to invest in sports facilities and infrastructure while ensuring that both athletic spaces and new homes can coexist harmoniously. |
UK house prices rise by least since March 2024, Halifax data shows Reuters - British house prices saw a modest 0.3% increase in the year leading up to December, the slowest growth since March 2024, as rising interest rates and a cost of living crisis dampened demand. This cooling market reflects broader economic trends, presenting new challenges for both buyers and sellers. |
Three things in store for UK commercial real estate in 2026 Savills - January 14, 2026 In the property market, prime locations are vital as sustained occupational activity is expected, with offices remaining a top investment choice through 2026, despite potential softening in retail rental growth due to rising operating costs. |
I just had to have a look inside this character-packed apartment in a historic Bristol city centre building Discover a charming 2-bedroom property in the heart of Bristol city centre, blending history and vibrant urban life with unique architectural features. Perfect for individuals or small families, this gem offers easy access to local shops, cafes, and cultural attractions, making it an ideal home for those seeking to immerse themselves in Bristol's rich culture and dynamic lifestyle. |
Take a look inside the £4.5m mansion for sale in Clifton Bristol Live - January 11, 2026 A stunning £4.5 million home near Clifton Down, boasting over 10,000 square feet with six bedrooms and seven bathrooms, is currently the most expensive property for sale in Bristol. Described as a "once in a lifetime opportunity," this iconic residence is nestled among grand villas that once belonged to the city's elite, next to the prestigious Merchant Venturers foundation. |
Landmark Queen Square offices reimagined for modern occupiers Colliers - Robert Hitchins Investment Properties has completed a stunning refurbishment of 31–32 Queen Square in Bristol, enhancing its appeal while preserving its historical significance. This revitalized property is set to attract diverse businesses and tenants, positively impacting the local economy and community. |
What's happening to house prices? Which? - April 22, 2024 UK house prices experienced a slight decline of 0.1% in October 2025, despite a 1.7% annual increase, with significant disparities between first-time buyers and home movers. As housing transactions fell by 2% to around 98,450, experts anticipate further declines in mortgage rates over the next year, potentially impacting future market trends. |
What’s on in Bristol this weekend?
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Riley unless otherwise specified.
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