Meeting: The future of the former Bristol Zoo Gardens site. Weds 29 Jan, 6.30pm for 7pm

Save Bristol Gardens Alliance is running a public meeting on Wednesday 29 January at Christ Church Clifton (doors 6.30pm for a 7pm start). Everyone is welcome. The meeting aims to update the public on the campaign's progress and that of its legal challenge; to put forward some other potential uses for the heritage and biodiversity-rich gardens; and to hear other ideas from those present.

Campaign potted history

The current planning permission for the site would see ugly flats of up to six stories, many historic trees removed, an estate road and car parking introduced for the first time, and the loss of much of the gardens we all love. 

The planning permission is being challenged by a Judicial Review which should be heard in the spring. If successful, the planning permission will be overturned. 

The alliance's vision is for a community collaboration which will bring forward a new and better vision for the gardens. One that balances the needs of the Zoological Society with respect for this unique, environmentally precious space and its future. 

The fight is not lost.

Join us on 29 January to discuss progress, introduce potential outcomes, and share your ideas for the gardens. What would you rather see, experience, and enjoy on the former Zoo Gardens site? An arboretum? Environmental attraction? A space of wonder and education for Bristol’s children? A public park, where new green businesses can repurpose the old Zoo buildings and work on our climate challenges?

We have the chance to reimagine this wonderful site for the next 200 years: for everyone, not just the wealthy few.

Meeting RSVP

Please use this RSVP to to help us plan for the meeting (though do just come along if you forget to submit an RSVP).

Planned programme

• 6.30pm Doors open.

• 7pm Setting the scene. Where we are now: George Ferguson.   

• 7.15pm The Legal Challenge/Judicial Review: Carrie Sage.

• 7.30pm Why this matters: Alastair Sawday.  

• 7.40pm An alternative vision, Nature First: Iain Boyd, ex-Chair of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. 

• 7.50pm The Battle for Bristol. What we’ve lost, nearly lost and saved: George Ferguson.  

• 8.15pm Panel Q&A and open debate. With Carrie Sage, Bill Ray, Alastair Sawday, George Ferguson, Tom Jones. Other panellists TBC.

• 9pm Meeting ends.