News / totterdown
Red billboards appear with demand to ‘save this view’
‘Save this view’ is the succinct message written on a new ruby-red billboard in south Bristol.
After being used for industry for decades, there now are extensive housing plans for a strip of land in between York Road and St Luke’s Road in Bedminster.
Three separate planning proposals have been submitted by developers in the vicinity – including a 22-storey block as part of a 900-home project.
is needed now More than ever
But thousands of people oppose the developments, as they say the towers would obstruct “iconic” vistas of multi-coloured houses.
Nearly 5,000 people have signed a petition urging city leaders to ensure the view of Totterdown’s terraces, which can be spotted by passengers on incoming trains to Temple Meads Station, are preserved.
It is spearheaded by TRESA – the Totterdown Residents Environmental and Social Action group – and a local campaign group.
In their latest move, Save the Totterdown Escarpment View have plastered their message to three billboards on St Luke’s Road.
They read: “The views of Bristol are part of its history. Make them part of its future. Save this view.”
The aim of the billboards are to “publicise the impending developments effect on this much loved view”, according to the group – photo: Betty Woolerton
Miranda Walker, the group’s spokesperson, said: “Although we are not against development in the Mead Street area, and know there is a need for new housing, we feel that the iconic views of the escarpment are worth preserving.
“It can be seen from many key points across the city and is a valuable asset of Bristol that captures its unique charm.”
But Mayor Marvin Rees responded to the group’s concerns in April.
“Totterdown is a densely populated urban area and is an appropriate place to bring forward homes that can help us alleviate the housing crisis,” Rees wrote.
“Delivering development often requires a careful balancing of issues, such as the views of local landmarks.
“I will however caution that if the development of sites in the city seeks to protect every view then more greenfield sites will ultimately be needed to meet the city’s housing need.”
Main photo: Betty Woolerton
Read more: Rees responds to campaign to save famous view of Totterdown’s colourful houses
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