Statement:

We the undersigned Request Bristol City Council to use it's full powers to bring a forced development of the derelict and abandoned site through a CPO or other court orders to prevent the site behind left vacant after demolition.

Justification:

This large site has remained derelict for over two decades, blighting the landscape and harming the character of our neighbourhood. Its neglected state poses safety risks and, given the acute housing shortage in Bristol, it is unacceptable that such a valuable space has been allowed to decay.

As residents, we recognise and appreciate the efforts of Council Officers to hold the landlord accountable and make the site safe. We acknowledge the multiple legal actions taken, though unfortunately the resulting fines have been too insignificant to compel meaningful change. We also welcome the recent demolition order issued on safety grounds—an overdue but necessary step, prompted only by the landlord’s persistent refusal to engage or comply with court directives.

However, our concern remains: once demolished, will this site simply lie dormant for another twenty years? We urge the Council to ensure this does not happen. A robust and enforceable development plan must be put in place to guarantee that the land is repurposed for the benefit of the community.

We believe this situation warrants exceptional measures, including consideration of a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO). While typically reserved for designated development areas, this case should set a precedent in Bristol. Special circumstances must be recognised to prevent absentee landowners from continuing to neglect and diminish the amenity of communities.