Bristol News by HANA - Edition 74
Bristol Bites: Vantastic idea! Not
From our Editor,
Bristol Bites: Vantastic idea! Not
Van dwellers on the Downs and beyond in Bristol. It remains a serious problem for our city. Unsanitary behaviour and other anti-social activity. Blighting beauty spots. A problem the council continues to struggle with.
The solution appears to be ‘meanwhile sites’ on undeveloped council land. The van dwellers shift to car parks and forecourts to keep them out of the public eye.
Residents on these sites pay (or are asked to pay) £30 a week for basic facilities such as chemical toilets and drinking water. There is no electricity. Not exactly The Ritz.
Now, from 1 April, the vannies will be liable for council tax at the Band A rate. That’s an eye watering £1,808 a year. A ludicrous amount to demand from people on low or no incomes. While the behaviour of some of the van dwelling community has been unacceptable and rightly castigated, the idea they should be forced to pay a tax rate they can’t afford is laughably sad.
It’s also self-defeating. It will force them back to the kerbs or, worse, the streets and alleyways. This column has argued consistently that van dwellers should pay council tax. But £1,808 a year? It will probably cost the council more to collect it. A rate capped at a maximum of £500 annually would be commensurate with the circumstances in which these people find themselves.
It seems that Bristol City Council has spun from abject failure to deal with the vans to turn it into a revenue-raising exercise. One which will doubtless increase pressure on health and social services.
This is poor governance for this city. This is not Bristol as we know it. And as for £30 a week to go to the toilet and drink potable water? Do me a favour. Unacceptable, councillors.
The real solution lies in the provision of adequate, affordable social housing. Not luxury apartments. Simple flats that can help people get back on their feet and live with some dignity, seek employment and make a fair contribution to the city. Government - both national and local - needs to get its act together.
Ours is a relatively rich city within a relatively rich nation. It cannot be beyond our collective wit to solve this problem properly.
International Women’s Day is almost upon us (Sunday 8 March). Bristol, as one would expect, is preparing to celebrate this annual event with gusto.
Our friends at Smart Works Bristol, the charity that helps women into the workplace through clothing and coaching, are playing their part.
SWB is hosting a breakfast panel session on Tuesday 3 March (8am-10am) at the excellent Origin Workspace(40 Berkeley Square BS8).
Speakers include polymath Jayde Adams (writer, comedian, actress… the list goes on), best-selling author Amanda Prowse and TV star Izzie Balmer (Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt and Travelling Auctioneers). A stellar line up - with coffee and pastries thrown in.
Origin is a fantastic venue. Brilliant staff and slick surroundings (our small team enjoy the workspace regularly).
But Origin is not Wembley Stadium, so tickets for this exciting event are limited. You can snaffle yours here for £30. All proceeds go directly to supporting Bristolian unemployed women back into work. We at Bristol Bites can’t think of a better way to support and celebrate International Women’s Day.
Rhidian Wynn Davies | Editor in Chief
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Databox
This week we focus on health in Bristol. Not a favourite subject for some. Pretty much everyone I know lies to their GP when asked how much alcohol they drink. Nevertheless, the data is important for health professionals and instructive for we mere mortals.
Cigarette smokers Bristol 14.0%. A fair few more puffs higher than the national local authority average of 11.4% in 2024. Smoking kills. It says so on the packets.
Cancer diagnosis at stage 1 and 2 Bristol 53.4%, compared with a national local authority average of 54.4%. Not a huge gulf. It means the city is catching cancer slightly later than the national average, rather than reflecting higher cancer rates. Early diagnosis is crucial to survival numbers. Data from 2021.
Preventable cardiovascular mortality (per 100,000 population) Bristol 30.0, compared with a national local authority average of 28.6 in 2024. Mortality means, er, death. So not the happiest stat this newsletter has spread. It’s not a massive difference. But Bristol health professionals - and Bristolians themselves - need to work hard to improve that number to at least the national average.
Bristol is worse than the national average on these three key metrics. The message is clear. Quit the fags and get a check-up.
Source: Office for National Statistics
Scroll down for best of Instagram, sport, property news and more things to do in Bristol this weekend…
Best Articles From Bristol This Week
as chosen by our editors
'Devastation' as gorilla dies days after moving to new home BBC News - February 26, 2026 Jock, a beloved 42-year-old silverback western lowland gorilla and long-time resident of Bristol Zoo, sadly passed away shortly after his relocation to a new home. His legacy as a leader and father will live on through the gorillas he raised and the countless individuals he inspired during his life. |
Affordable housing needed as Bristol van dwellers face removal 'eviction is not the answer' Bristol Live - February 22, 2026 Bristol City Council's recent eviction order for van dwellers on Goodneston Road has sparked a contentious debate over affordable housing solutions, with residents divided on the council's approach. Proposals range from licensing vans and repurposing vacant student flats to offering empty council properties in exchange for assistance in their upkeep, highlighting the urgent need for practical solutions to homelessness in the city. |
Man's body recovered from water near Bristol Channel Yahoo News - February 25, 2026 A man's body was found in Walton Bay near Portishead on February 22, 2026, with authorities informing the family of a missing person from November 2025, though they do not suspect foul play. A file will be submitted to the coroner as formal identification is still pending. |
University of Bristol Launches Mumbai Campus, Boosting UK-India Student Mobility and Industry Links VisaHQ - February 24, 2026 The University of Bristol will open its Mumbai Enterprise Campus in August 2026, bolstered by a £1.5 million donation from the Shanta Foundation and a partnership with Tata Consultancy Services. This initiative aims to enhance UK-India student mobility, offering programs in data science, finance, and immersive arts for up to 2,500 students over five years. |
February: gw4 alliance universities Bristol Uni - February 26, 2026 The West of England Research, Development and Innovation Showcase on February 13 highlighted exciting R&D opportunities, featuring powerful supercomputers GW4 Isambard 3 and Isambard-AI, and fostering discussions on engineering biology and clean transport among regional startups and SMEs. Claire Hazelgrove, MP for Filton and Bradley Stoke, underscored the region’s productivity and the importance of effectively communicating its innovations. |
Primus announce summer European and UK tour Kerrang! - February 25, 2026 Primus is set to embark on a European and UK summer tour in 2026, headlining festivals like Bristol's ArcTanGent and performing at iconic venues such as Manchester Academy and London's O2 Forum Kentish Town. Fans can look forward to an "evening with" format for their headline shows, with presale tickets available starting February 25. |
Bacon left on mosque during Ramadan prayers The Independent - February 23, 2026 Police in Bristol are investigating a hate crime after bacon was left outside a mosque during Ramadan prayers, prompting increased patrols in the area. Avon and Somerset Police have released an image of a man who may have information about the incident and are urging anyone with details to come forward. |
Talking Sopranos at Bristol Beacon: Heckling audience made me ashamed of my city Bristol Live - February 26, 2026 An evening with The Sopranos stars Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa at Bristol Beacon was marred by unruly audience members whose disruptive behavior overshadowed meaningful discussions about the show's themes. Despite the actors' professionalism, the lack of decorum left many attendees, including the author, embarrassed and concerned about the impression Bristol made on its esteemed guests. |
Bristol Cyber Apprentices Join Forces with British Military in First Global Defence Cyber Challenge Leonardo - Eleven apprentices from Leonardo’s Cyber & Security division successfully completed their first international deployment in Singapore, collaborating with Royal Signals reservists to defend complex networks against cyber attacks. Team lead Oliver praised the experience for its intensity and professional growth opportunities, highlighting the importance of strong ties between Leonardo and the Ministry of Defence. |
Bristol NHS Group joins Bristol Rovers in launching ‘The John Green Campaign’ in support of Prostate Cancer Awareness North Bristol NHS Trust - February 26, 2026 Bristol Rovers is championing prostate cancer awareness throughout March with home fixtures and events, including an awareness day on March 28 and an expert panel discussion on March 25. The initiative, in collaboration with the North Bristol NHS Group and SWAG Cancer Alliance, aims to promote open conversations about men's health and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis. |
Why is Bristol city centre artwork so badly damaged? BBC News - February 25, 2026 Urban artworks often face damage from high foot traffic, vandalism, and harsh weather conditions, particularly in cities like Bristol where street art thrives amid a complex relationship between community appreciation and defacement. The choice of materials by artists can further influence the vulnerability of these public displays to wear and tear. |
Bristol restaurant wins fight to keep outdoor seating BBC News - February 27, 2026 Bravas restaurant in Bristol has successfully retained its outdoor seating after Bristol City Council overturned a planning officer's recommendation to refuse permission, thanks to a withdrawal of concerns from Avon Fire and Rescue. With overwhelming public support and no safety incidents reported, co-founders Kieran and Imogen Waite celebrated the terrace's positive impact on the community over the past five years. |
Four Bristol acts nominated for UK blues awards Bristol24/7 - February 26, 2026 Bristol's blues scene is making waves nationally, with local talents like Elles Bailey and Joe Wilkins nominated for prestigious UK Blues Federation awards. As they gear up for exciting releases, including a re-pressed debut album and a live album from France, bands like Kirris Riviere and the Delta du Bruit are captivating audiences across Europe with their dynamic performances. |
Police and schools warn parents over ‘school wars’ social media trend inciting children to carry weapons The Independent - February 27, 2026 Police and schools are on high alert due to the alarming "school wars" trend on social media, which encourages violent fights between students using knives. With increased police presence and warnings to parents about monitoring their children's online activities, authorities emphasize the serious consequences of such behavior as the trend spreads beyond London to cities like Bristol. |
Gromit sculpture now on display at Bristol Airport Yahoo News - February 26, 2026 A stunning Gromit sculpture named Edelweiss, designed by Bristol artist Jenny Urquhart and inspired by The Sound of Music, has been unveiled at Bristol Airport to support The Grand Appeal for local children's healthcare. Alongside a new 10-metre-long 'Bristol' sign, the airport is also undergoing a £400 million transformation to enhance passenger experience, set to be completed this summer. |
Best Of Instagram
Sport
Bristol Bears
After the disappointment of a 33-24 defeat at Bath in the Prem Cup on Valentine’s Day, The Bears are back at Ashton Gate tomorrow for another cup match.
They play Sale at 3pm. Any cup dreams have already evaporated, but here’s hoping they put on a decent show for the crowd.
In more positive news, English fly-half Sam Worsley and Welsh winger Aidan Boshoff have signed new long-term contracts with Bristol. The Bears rarely explain what “long term” actually means. 10 years, five years, next week? But this is great news. Two talented players secured in the backs.
The Anglo-Welsh rivalry and camaraderie in the Gate’s home dressing room is becoming a thing. Ellis “Mr Bristol” Genge and LRZ remain at the pinnacle for now, however. The English bull and the Welsh speedster. As previously begged in this column, please don’t hurt each other in training. The Bears need you as they push for a league playoff place.
Agony for Bristol Bears Women as they lost 36-33 to Saracens Women at the StoneX in north London in the Premiership. A great performance but a defeat is a defeat. Better luck in future games, Bear women!
Bristol City
City fans were glum after a narrow 1-0 defeat at Swansea last Saturday. But Championship football is a rollercoaster, full of ups and downs.
So, The Robins visited Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday night and pulled off a 2-1 victory. These are hard miles. City lie 8th - four points adrift of the playoff places and a shot at the Premier League.
Next up are Watford tonight (Friday 8pm) at The Gate. Hold on to your hats. It really is a rollercoaster this season.
Bristol Rovers
The Pirates sank The Mariners at The Mem last Saturday. Rovers 3-1 winners against higher placed Grimsby in League Two. A decent bounce back after a 2-0 defeat away to Oldham.
The Gas lie in 20th on 30 points - four above the drop zone. The plank still quivers. But safety seems more likely now.
Swindon away tomorrow (Saturday 12.30pm) will be tough. Nicknamed The Robins, that should be enough motivation for Rovers to get stuck in.
Hana Sports Desk
Property News
Savills launches major Bristol development opportunity UK Property Forums - February 25, 2026 Homes England is offering a prime residential development opportunity at the former Kleeneze factory site in Hanham, Bristol, a cleared 2.34-hectare brownfield site with outline planning permission for up to 200 homes, including 35% affordable housing and workspace. Located just four miles from Bristol city center, this site presents various feasible development options, making it an attractive prospect for potential investors. |
Best country houses for sale this week Country Life - January 30, 2025 Discover a selection of exquisite properties for sale across the UK, from a historic Cotswolds estate with sprawling grounds to charming farmhouses in tranquil settings. Whether you're seeking luxury or rustic charm, there's something for everyone in this diverse real estate market. |
Roll out of botched IT project ‘regrettable but normal’ says Bristol City Council chief exec Yahoo News - February 23, 2026 Bristol City Council's implementation of NEC Housing software has led to a surge in overdue repairs, jumping from 8,000 to 20,000, amid questions about data accuracy and management, while tenants now face additional hurdles in bidding for homes. The council's chief executive acknowledged the common challenges of large IT migrations, as they grapple with a £7.5 million project that has faced significant budgeting overruns and persistent issues due to aging data systems. |
Bristol launches consultation on landlord penalty framework PropertyWire - February 24, 2026 Bristol City Council is seeking public input on a new financial penalty framework for landlords who violate housing regulations, in line with upcoming enforcement powers from the Renters’ Rights Act set to take effect in May 2026. The consultation, running until March 30, proposes a flexible penalty system that considers breach severity and landlord compliance, alongside adjustments for local rental costs and incentives for early payment. |
UK’s biggest student housing provider hit by fall in international enrolment The Guardian - February 24, 2026 Unite Group, the UK's leading student housing provider, has slashed its profit forecasts for the third time in four months due to declining international student numbers, resulting in a significant drop in occupancy and rental growth projections. Shares plummeted over 12%, prompting the company to pivot towards properties near top universities, sell assets, and implement cost-cutting measures amidst a challenging market environment. |
Homes England puts former Bristol Kleeneze factory site up for sale A prime brownfield site in Hanham, Bristol, is now available for residential development, offering outline planning permission for up to 200 homes. This opportunity not only addresses the growing housing demand in the area but also supports urban regeneration efforts, making it ideal for developers looking to invest in a vibrant community. |
Bristol landlords asked for views on their penalty fines Landlordzone - February 23, 2026 Bristol Council is proposing a 10% increase in civil penalties for landlords violating housing regulations under the Renters’ Rights Act, aiming to deter offenses amid soaring rents. The council also suggests discounts for prompt payments and increased fines for serious breaches and repeat offenders, ensuring accountability in the rental market. |
Green council plots larger fines for rule-breaking landlords housing asylum seekers Bristol City Council is introducing a 20% premium on fines for landlords who violate regulations concerning vulnerable tenants, aiming to enhance protections for those at greater risk of exploitation. This initiative underscores the council's commitment to improving housing standards and safeguarding tenant rights in the city. |
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What’s on in Bristol this weekend?
Big city‑wide stuff
Bristol Light Festival 2026 – Final nights run through to Saturday 28 February, 5–9:30pm, with free large‑scale light installations spread across the city centre including Redcliffe, Cabot Circus, Park Street, Spike Island and Portland Square.
“Our Colour” / “Our Colour Reflection” by Liz West – Major light works forming part of the Light Festival, including a transformation of the Cabot Circus car park into a colour installation.
Music, gigs and nights out
Road To Nashville – country all‑dayer – Prospect Building, Sat 28 Feb, 14:00–22:00, 18+. Country‑themed “boot‑stompin’” fest with tribute acts to Morgan Wallen, Teddy Swims, Post Malone, Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, Lainey Wilson, Shania Twain, Chris Stapleton and Cody Johnson.
Kim Dracula – Electric Bristol, listings show a Kim Dracula music event on Fri 27 Feb 2026, billed as a dark, theatrical blend of music, art and performance.
Bristol Beacon – gigs – Bristol Beacon’s February schedule for Sat 28 Feb includes rock/pop shows such as Buster Shuffle’s “Together Tour 2026” in Lantern Hall (check times and remaining tickets).
Niche / fan events
Bristol Card Show – UWE – Collectible card show at UWE’s Enterprise Park 1, running across Sat 28 Feb and Sun 1 Mar 2026 from 09:00, with trading, buying and selling for TCG and other card collectors.
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