Developers Criticize Bristol Housing Plan as Lengthy Inquiry Begins

Bristol plans to build many new homes. The city wants 34,650 new homes in 15 years. This might not be enough for everyone. The plan includes jobs, roads, schools, and shops. All this should exist by 2040. About 1,925 homes get built each year. Most go on old sites, some on the edge of town.

A public meeting took place recently. Developers questioned council leaders about the plan, and a government inspector also asked questions. This meeting will last seven weeks. They will discuss how many homes are needed and where to build them. The city’s wider impacts also concern them.

The meeting started on February 25th. Bristol needs help from nearby areas with the new housing demand. Bristol tried to work with other councils, specifically South Gloucestershire and Bath, to share the housing load. Two major attempts failed.

Talks ended badly back in May 2022. They discussed a spatial development strategy. South Gloucestershire refused to take many new homes, as Bristol’s housing needs would not fit there. Talks continue, but they have no firm deal yet.

A council head said he meets with other councils and thinks of them like family. They want to work together on housing numbers. However, they won’t commit to taking Bristol’s extra need. This means they will not house extra people for Bristol.

Housing developers disagreed with this, saying Bristol takes a passive approach. A housing group shared serious concerns, feeling Bristol could not build enough homes. These homes serve actual people who need those homes and places to live.

Rent increases and waiting lists could happen. The housing group asked where the homes would go. A housebuilding company also spoke up sharply, saying Bristol asked for help but lacked leadership. Councils avoid meeting the need rather than address it.

The University of the West of England expands fast and also has a lack of cooperation from the council. Students want to live near the city center, creating extra demand for more student housing. More student housing puts a strain on the city.

The public meeting checks the local plan. Government inspectors check if it is sound. Developers can raise concerns then, and environmental groups can point out any flaws. This process is key to agreeing on the final plan.