Clifton Suspension Bridge, as well as the Clifton Observatory, are well-known attractions in Bristol but they hold a darker story. Both areas have high suicide rates. Since 1974-1993, 127 people had committed suicide from the Clifton Suspension Bridge. In 1998 barriers were installed on the bridge to prevent suicides, this halved the annual suicide rate on the bridge but led to the Clifton Observatory becoming a secondary suicide spot to the bridge due to low barriers in the surrounding areas. As a result of this, we propose higher barriers in this area to make this attraction safer and reduce the suicide rate. The barriers in this area should be at least a metre and a half high as opposed to the mere 95 centimetre height previously suggested in 2015. Whilst we appreciate that the Council wants to maintain a scenic view of the Avon Gorge, we feel that safety should be of first priority.

We call upon the Bristol City Council to take responsibility for this change and implement the suggested changes. We are committed to making this change, we also have plans to attach suicide prevention placards along the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Clifton Observatory to help someone in a time of need.