Bristol van dwellers to be offered council pitches
Parsons said: "We're looking to bring on 250 pitches on meanwhile sites for vehicle dwellers, where people can go that are away from the road where they can get clean water and basic waste facilities for a small fee". Meanwhile sites are temporary areas on land due for development which can provide space and basic services including toilets for those living in vehicles.
One van-dweller called Ash, who lives with his girlfriend close to the M32 motorway, said: "We're doing this because we don't have to pay up to £1,000 for a flat. "And then obviously you've got expenses on top of that, which is like bills, electrics."Protect The Downs, a community group which started the petition, said van dwelling was causing problems such as drug-taking, littering and human waste being dumped in bushes.Its petition called on the council to enforce existing policies on van dwellers.
Group member Sally Booley said: "I'd like Bristol City Council to take their heads out of the sand and start enforcing the law. "There is a law there that says you can't park for more than five hours. Why are they not enforcing that?"The council said once established pitches had been set up, it would be easier to take action against illegally parked vans.
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'Once aware of the concerns raised by the church groups, the council worked in close communication with them to reach a resolution. This included meeting with the groups to explain the PSPO and how it works and the available licensing schemes to allow the groups to continue activities in town centres. 'The council proceeded to conduct an early review of the PSPO in light of the concerns of the church groups, running a consultation in early 2025, and subsequently discharged the order and introduced a new one in its place from 1 May 2025.'
