Residents near Bristol rally to oppose a massive business campus by Epic, fearing loss of Green Belt land and community impact
Bristol: So, a bunch of folks from Long Ashton just had a big meeting. They’re super worried about this massive business campus that a US tech company, Epic, wants to build right between their village and the city. They think it’ll be a total game-changer, and not in a good way.
Over 130 residents crammed into the community center, all fired up after hearing that local planners were leaning towards giving Epic the green light. People were pretty upset, feeling like their voices weren’t being heard. They think this project will wreck the Green Belt that keeps their village separate from Bristol.
Epic claims they need this huge campus to expand, but locals aren’t buying it. They argue there are plenty of other spots in Bristol where Epic could set up shop without messing with the Green Belt. It’s a hot topic, especially with the planning committee meeting coming up soon.
At the meeting, residents were brainstorming ways to push back against the planners’ recommendation. They want to make sure their concerns are heard loud and clear. It’s all about protecting their community and the green spaces they cherish.
Epic’s plan is pretty ambitious. They want to create a massive campus that includes everything from offices to a huge auditorium. But many locals are questioning whether this is really necessary. They’re worried that once the Green Belt is gone, it’ll be a slippery slope to more development.
One resident pointed out that the economic benefits Epic claims won’t really help the local community. Most of the jobs might go to people from the US or London, not locals. It’s a tough pill to swallow for those who care about their village.
Local councillors are also weighing in, saying the planners’ view on the economic benefits is subjective. They’re urging the community to rally together and fight this proposal. It’s a crucial moment for Long Ashton, and everyone knows it.
As the meeting wrapped up, many residents pledged to reach out to the councillors before the big decision day. They’re determined to make their voices heard and protect their beloved Green Belt from what they see as an unnecessary development.
