It will consider “more paid for activities to improve visitor experience”Some of the bigger Bristol parks, like Ashton Court, already hold popular events(Image: BristolLive)

A new group could be set up to explore how Bristol City Council can earn more money from its parks and events. It is hoped a new council ‘task force’ would also help to enhance green spaces and maintain them for generations to come.

Councillors on the Public Health and Communities Committee will discuss the formation of a new ‘Task and Finish’ group to review potential ideas. These include working with partners to run more paid-for activities to improve visitor experience, the potential expansion of Blaise Plant Nursery, as well as advertising and sponsorship opportunities.

The parks service relies on commercial activity, rents and fees to exist. It manages more than 430 parks across the city, ranging from small urban parks to large heritage estates.

“The positive impact of our parks on the health and wellbeing of residents and communities can’t be overstated,” said Councillor Stephen Williams, chair of the Public Health and Communities Committee. “We don’t currently have enough funding to really maximise the potential of our parks, but we have a real opportunity to explore ideas to help generate more money and provide new experiences within our green spaces.

“To unlock the potential of parks we need to work together with partners across the city to develop ideas and look at what exciting activities we can provide within our parks, while still protecting spaces for nature and for peace and quiet. We know that there are potential challenges and conflicts associated with increasing the number of events held in Bristol, but this group will help assess these issues and look at ways we can minimise them while making sure future generations are able to keep enjoying these vital spaces.”

If approved, the new group – which will have cross-party membership as well as expertise from council officials – will also discuss potential opportunities for improving the sustainability of events taking place across Bristol. The next Public Health and Communities Committee meeting is scheduled for Friday, May 9 and will be streamed online via YouTube.