THE future of Turbo Island in Stokes Croft will remain undecided for several months.
Supporters want the site to be declared a “town or village green”, which would protect it from being built on.
Turbo Island is often home to spontaneous raves, late-night bonfires and people drinking and taking drugs. Variously viewed as a community hub or a beacon for anti-social behaviour, the small plot of land at the end of Jamaica Street divides public opinion.
Last September, talks of an impending sale of the land prompted fears that potential buyers might construct a four-storey building there. This led to the village green application. Weeks later a mystery buyer bought Turbo Island.
Bristol City Council’s public rights of way and greens committee considered the application last month and voted to ask its lawyers to report back in July on a number of tricky questions. They decided against spending taxpayers’ money on hiring an expert in the complex law around village greens at this stage – but reserved the option to do so later.
Unanswered questions include whether the activities that take place on Turbo Island count as “lawful pastimes”, and if a fence put up for a week meant the public were blocked from the site. National Grid also needs to access the land, to maintain a substation and cables.
The committee was presented with written arguments on both sides of the battle for Turbo Island. Supporters said the corner was a welcoming meeting point for homeless people, while detractors told of frequent crime.
Out of Hand Ltd, a Bedminster flyering and advertising firm, is objecting to the application. Also objecting are Avon and Somerset Police and the National Grid.
By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service