Van dwellers told not to drink council site water

Some people living in vans on a council-run site say they have become ill after drinking water from the site taps.

It has prompted Bristol City Council to write to residents of the 'meanwhile' site, instructing them not to drink the water while the authority tries to get "a clearer understanding of the water's drinking quality".

The site has 14 pitches and was opened in December, as part of the council's strategy to bring down the number of people living on the roadside across the city.

Meanwhile sites get their name from the fact they are earmarked for development in the future, but can be used by vehicle dwellers before then.

The water is safe for washing and hygiene, the council said, and asked vehicle dwellers to get drinking water from the nearby Lockleaze Neighbourhood Hub, which the council says has "kindly agreed to allow site users to access drinking water under certain conditions".

The letter lists a number of "restrictions" on access to safe drinking water at the community centre.

Access is only available during opening hours, with no access on a Wednesday before 14:00 GMT nor when private groups are using the building.

"The hub does not have deep sinks, so only small containers can be filled," the letter says.

"It makes everyone feel like they're begging", a van dweller told the BBC.

A pitch on the meanwhile site costs £31.50 per week, plus Band A council tax - which is around £33 per week for 2025-26.

The council suggested the measures will be in place for at least seven days, with a "detailed assessment" of the situation not due to take place until next week.

"We appreciate everyone's cooperation and patience while we work to better understand and resolve the water quality issue," the council wrote in its letter to those living on the site.

A council spokesperson told the BBC: "The water pipes on the Blake Centre site were flushed during installation, but a few site users have expressed concerns about the water quality. As a precaution, we have advised residents not to drink or consume the water at this time.

"We have arranged for Bristol Water to attend the site alongside our contractor next week. They will carry out a more detailed assessment and advise on any necessary actions.

"Site users are being kept updated about the situation."

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