The Bearpit is set to become a “green gateway to Bristol”, under new proposals from a group seeking to drive positive change in the heart of the city.

The troubled thoroughfare – its newly-painted walls already flecked with graffiti tags – has effectively become a ‘no man’s land’ since the council took back control in March.

This followed a rise in anti-social behaviour that left business owners fearing for their safety, and conflict between two groups with different ideas for what the future of the sunken roundabout should be.

Support

independent journalism Bristol24/7 relies on your support to remain independent. If you like what we do and you want us to keep reporting, become a member for just £45 for the year Join now

From these murky waters, a new vision has emerged that would see the Bearpit transformed into a food innovation hub, to showcase solutions to growing sustainable produce and to support community-led initiatives that will improve health and well being.

“The last few years have taught resilience, hope and the will to make a difference in the Bearpit,” says Miriam Delogu, managing director of the Bearpit CIC.

“People and organisations across the city feel connected and ready to put Bristol at the forefront of food innovation, and to do something extraordinary; change the history of St James Barton Roundabout.

“Our vision to transform the space into a truly sustainable, inclusive, resilient and, most importantly, safe destination will change the city centre of Bristol for the better, for all.”

Miriam ran Bearpit Social in the space, before eventually making the decision to leave in February, due to growing fears for the safety of her and her staff.

The new vision aims to instigate positive social change by bringing community projects and Bristol’s food experts together to create ‘The Circle’ – the idea has been formulated by a collective of groups, organisations and individuals.

Sara Venn, founder of Incredible Edible Bristol, which maintains the community gardens in the Bearpit, says: “This is both an innovative project technologically, but also socially, connecting communities across the city by great utilisation of the space and ensuring inclusivity within that space.

“We are thrilled to be a partner in this project, as it will set Bristol not just at the forefront of the future of food, but also as a beacon of good horticultural and community practices.”

It is anticipated that The Circle will bring new opportunities for 40 businesses and provide more than 160 jobs to the local economy, including full-time, part-time and volunteering roles.

Over the summer, a small scale showcase of the project will be active in the Bearpit.

A three-month consultation period will begin in June to gather public opinion, with people being offered the chance to give their feedback and ideas at six events across the city, and through an online form.

The aim of the collaboration between Bearpit Bristol CIC, Incredible Edible Bristol, Grow Bristol, APG Architects, McGregor Coxall and other organisations is to create a space that is truly inclusive and welcoming.

David Ingerslev, St Mungo’s Rough Sleeping Service Manager said: “The Bearpit has not primarily been a site for large numbers of people rough sleeping.

“We are aware there have been significant challenges in that location and that positive change is needed. Our teams will continue to connect with anyone who is rough sleeping wherever they are in Bristol.”

Those behind the project say there will be opportunities for everyone to be involved and further conversations with other agencies supporting homeless and vulnerable citizens will be taking place over the next few months.

Read more: Bristol City Council takes back control of Bearpit