NEW signs on the Downs have been welcomed by local campaigners and residents as a significant milestone.
The Protect the Downs group says the signs installed last month will help protect one of the city’s most treasured public open spaces.
The signs clearly explain the court injunction that applies to the Downs. They outline the rules designed to safeguard the area for the benefit of everyone who enjoys it and the enforcement powers available when restrictions are ignored.
The new signs make it unmistakably clear that:
• Living in vehicles or tents on the Downs is not permitted.
• A Court Injunction is in force.
• Both Bristol City Council and Avon and Somerset Police have enforcement powers.
The group says this clear messaging removes any suggestion that people may be unaware of the restrictions and strengthens the evidence available when breaches are reported.
Sharon Scott, chair of Protect The Downs, said: “The installation of these signs is a landmark moment for everyone who cares about the future of the Downs. Since the court injunction was put in place, we have consistently urged Bristol City Council to install clear signage, and it’s encouraging to see this important step finally taken.
“The signs leave no room for misunderstanding—they clearly explain that the Court Injunction is in place, that living in vehicles or tents is not permitted, and that both the Council and the police have enforcement powers. We now look forward to seeing the injunction applied consistently so that the Downs can be protected for the benefit of residents, visitors and future generations.”
She thanked everyone who has worked to bring about the important change.
“Protect the Downs is hopeful that this marks the beginning of consistent enforcement of the Court Injunction, helping to preserve the Downs as a safe, accessible and welcoming green space for everyone to enjoy,” she said.
The court injunction runs until May 7, 2027. It prevents people from living in vehicles on the main roads around the Downs and from carrying out anti-social behaviour.
The injunction covers the grassed area of the Downs and Ladies Mile, and will now also include Parrys Lane, Roman Road, Stoke Road, Westbury Park Road, Saville Road, Clay Pitt Road, Rockleaze, Downleaze, Wills Lane and Circular Road.
The council’s outreach team is working with the van dwellers to ensure their welfare.
It is developing “meanwhile sites” with facilities where people can live in vehicles.