Bristol considers permanent sites for van dwellers amid rising numbers, aiming to provide stability and address community needs.
Van dwellers have greatly increased in Bristol. Five years ago, there were about 150 vans, but now council estimates show around 680.
Some residents see van dwellers as a problem, but a committee chair wants a fair solution. He says the issue has become unfairly negative.
The report aims for a fresh perspective and seeks to support everyone’s well-being. This includes van residents and housed neighbors. The council knows the situation is complicated, and the current approach is not working well.
The meeting will propose “meanwhile” spaces, which offer water and toilets. Van dwellers can use them while finding homes. A “Vehicle Dweller Voices” group is suggested to represent van residents’ needs.
Permanent sites could offer stability and provide addresses for van dwellers. These sites can also act as family support hubs.
Finding suitable site locations will be hard, and public reaction might be negative. A consultation will be needed, but potential sites remain unpublished.
People live in vehicles for many reasons, and van dwellers can face health issues. The focus must be on finding lasting solutions. If a vehicle encampment poses problems, action may occur.
The council wants open talks about vehicle dwellers and wants to assure action on this serious matter with clear policies for when we must act.