Bristol City Council has reached out to Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who also serves as Secretary of State for Housing and Communities, for assistance in managing an increase in van-dwelling within the city. The council’s letter highlights a growing number of motorhomes and caravans parked on Clifton Down, contributing to rising tensions in the community.
Councillor Barry Parsons stated that the council recognizes the need for external support to address this issue effectively. The letter requests funding to establish welfare support for residents living in vehicles and seeks additional powers to facilitate the removal of vehicles from council property. Furthermore, the council aims to secure funding for more social housing options, which could help alleviate some of the pressures faced by those living in vans.
Reports indicate that approximately 650 vehicles are currently being used as homes in Bristol. Many individuals have turned to this lifestyle due to rising living costs and high rental prices in the area. In response, the council is planning to create temporary “meanwhile sites” that would provide low-cost pitches with necessary amenities, such as toilets and running water.
In his statement, Councillor Parsons noted that housing in Bristol is under significant strain, with average private rents rising over 23% from 2020 to 2023, and house prices reaching nearly nine times the average annual earnings. He expressed that with appropriate support from the central government, the council could enhance its ongoing housing efforts.
Additionally, the council’s letter proposes introducing a legal requirement for caravans to have a registration of ownership, aimed at simplifying enforcement on unhitched vehicles. The council is also advocating for the devolution of powers that would allow local authorities to influence private rent affordability.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqjyx4kjdd0o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss