A Local Property Partnership for Bedminster Town Centre

In 2022, conversations began between Bristol City Council, Windmill Hill City Farm, Action Greater Bedminster, Ocean Estate Agents, and Platform Places around finding a new approach to the development of East Street and the surrounding areas. 

The pace of development suggested unavoidable change for the High Street and the challenge was one of community-control – how could communities steward the development of East Street, and safeguard its future as a functional and affordable High Street for South Bristol?

Driven by a quest to find the elusive grey area between no-growth and run-away gentrification, the partnership began mapping ownership of East Street and exploring different models of ‘community buildings’. 

We have a growing set of examples of how communities are coming together to build the civic infrastructure that our neighbourhoods need to respond to the overlapping crises we face, such as climate change, inequality and the cost of living. Examples like Hastings Commons, Nudge Community Builders, or Sparks in Broadmead show a new model for highstreets, one where shops sit alongside community spaces, repair cafes, libraries of things, venues, social-purpose cafes, and many more vibrant and every-day uses. 

In June 2024, the partnership supported Share Bristol to open a Library of Things on East Street. In October 2024, the partnership was announced as one of five pilots in a project run by Platform Places and funded £2.5 Million by the National Lottery Communities Fund. The purpose of this funding is to establish a ‘Local Property Partnership’ in Bedminster with a purpose to open three ‘community buildings’ in three years. 

What is a Local Property Partnership?

As a group of partners, now called Bedminster Works, our aim is to unlock affordable, secure spaces for local and independent businesses, socially-trading organisations and community groups. Along the way we’re also hoping to influence how land and buildings are managed in Bedminster Town Centre, creating a shared goal between those that need space and those that have space, which values long term prosperity for people and the planet. 

The purpose of a Local Property Partnership is to bridge a gap that exists between those that need space and those that have space. On one side of the ravine stands local people with brilliant ideas that need space on the High Street, on the other stands asset owners looking to rent or sell their properties. In between lie misunderstandings, a lack of trust, different ways of communicating, and uncertainty around what High Streets need and what is possible. On both sides however, lies a shared understanding that a thriving high street is good for everyone. 

A High Street That Works for Everyone

So what might it look like if we get this right? Imagine a high street where you don’t have to spend a lot to live well — where things are built to last, and where people help each other out. This is a high street designed to make life more affordable, practical, connected, and joyful.

Instead of throwing things away, you can bring them to a repair café — whether it’s a kettle, a phone, or a pair of boots. Skilled volunteers help fix them for free or for a small donation. Next door, a tool library lets you borrow what you need — a drill, a ladder, a sewing machine — without having to buy it.

Clothes don’t have to cost the earth. Swap shops and second-hand shops offer good-quality fashion at low prices, and you can trade in what you no longer wear. Refill stations help you save money by topping up essentials like washing-up liquid or rice without paying for packaging.

There’s a community kitchen where people cook together, share meals, and learn new recipes. It’s a place to eat well, meet others, and even start a food business without needing your own premises. Bike repair hubs help you keep moving without the cost of a car, and co-working spaces offer affordable desks for side hustles or remote work.

This high street isn’t just about saving money — it’s about building something better together. Skill-sharing hubs let people teach and learn everything from DIY to digital skills. 

Makerspaces give access to tools and training for anyone who wants to fix, build, or create.

There’s pride in this place. It’s clean, welcoming, and full of life. Local people run the shops, lead the workshops, and shape what happens. It’s not about big brands — it’s about local value, fair prices, and looking out for each other.

This is a high street that works for working people. It helps stretch your budget, supports local jobs, and gives everyone a chance to take part. But It’s not just about buying — it’s about belonging.