Bristol sees significant drop in people living in vehicles
Council's new policy aids transition from kerbside living
Bristol has witnessed a notable decrease in the number of people living in vehicles, with figures dropping by over a quarter since January.
According to recent data, the city saw a reduction from 479 to 295 lived-in vehicles across 96 locations.
Earlier this year, over 100 vehicles were moved from the Downs due to health and environmental concerns.
This count includes vehicles situated on Meanwhile Sites, squatted sites, and private areas.
The city's Homes and Housing Delivery Committee implemented a policy last December, prioritising support before enforcement, offering a clearer framework for handling vehicle dwellers' situations.
Councillor Barry Parsons, Chair of the Homes and Housing Delivery Committee, said: “We are committed to improving conditions for people living in vehicles, and are pleased to see a reduction in kerbside living, something that we believe is not a safe and sustainable housing option.
“It is also fantastic to see the positive impact the outreach team are having – engaging with people living in vehicles and helping them find routes into more suitable housing. Moving forward, building meaningful relationships with people living in vehicles will remain a priority.
“However, we are concerned that while some people are taking up the support on offer, others may be moving outside of the city boundaries, and we need a national and regional approach to tackling this issue.
“We want to work with our neighbouring authorities to share what we have learned putting this new policy together, and we call on the new Government to recognise the issue of people living in vehicles and help us provide the support they need.
“Fundamentally we want to make sure that all communities, including those living in vehicles or caravans, and those in homes in neighbourhoods, have a chance to live healthy and safe lives, and I would like to thank all the teams involved for their hard work.”
H2: Outreach Support During April to June 2026, outreach workers contacted 90 people living in vehicles, with 18 positive outcomes, including transitions to Meanwhile Sites.
A survey is currently being conducted to better understand the circumstances and challenges faced by city residents living in vehicles.
H2: Meanwhile Sites Currently, 83 pitches are occupied at seven Meanwhile Sites offering safe accommodation for vehicle dwellers.
A new site under construction in Whitchurch will provide 60 additional pitches, adding to the city’s capacity.
Upon completion, the site will have 157 approved pitches, accommodating community living and amenities such as water, rubbish collection, and toilets.
Albatross Road, opening next month, will represent the council's largest Meanwhile Site, further supporting those transitioning from kerbside living.