Lack of cash thwarts action

Security patrols on the Downs are unlikely to be rolled out due to a shortage of cash. 

Byelaws ban a range of activities on the Clifton Down and Durdham Down, such as having barbecues or parking on the grass, but these are rarely enforced, if ever. Earlier this summer, one option suggested was a month-long “blitz” of enforcing these rules on the Downs.

But the parks department at Bristol City Council doesn’t have enough money to pay for the security patrols, according to one council boss speaking to the Downs committee meeting on September 16. The committee consists of councillors and members of the Merchant Venturers.

Jon James, head of service for natural and marine environment, said: “There will be a charge to the parks service. At the moment, with the current financial situation, we would find it very challenging to fund anything like that.”

Separately, an extra charge on council tax paid by people near to the park, known as a ‘precept’, was ruled out by a council finance manager. National rules limit how much council tax can increase each April, and there are “no opportunities” for an additional levy for the Downs.

An annual precept of around £20 for local residents had been suggested by new Liberal Democrat Cllr Caroline Gooch, representing Westbury-on-Trym and Henleaze, in June. This was later criticised by Stoke Bishop Conservative councillors as “unfair and arbitrary”.

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service