E-petition launched in bid to save Baltic Wharf site from closure

by Philip Lovegrove
2013 Bloom Award winner Baltic Wharf Caravan Park in Bristol has launched a petition in a bid to save the campsite.
The popular Caravan Club site, which is set to be relocated and replaced by a primary school, is due for closure at the end of the year, much to the dismay of many tourists.
The campsite, which features 55 pitches, overlooks the city’s docks and attracts many visitors from all over the country, so it is of little surprise that an e-petition has been set up to save the site in Cumberland Road from closing.
The e-petition, which was set up by Matthew Gibbs, claims the decision to axe the site was taken without deliberation and it would have a “devastating effect” on the local community and its ability to attract holiday-makers.
The petition reads: “Please support us in our attempt to convince Bristol City Council to reconsider their decision to close the Baltic Wharf campsite at the end of the year.
“The decision was taken without any public consultation and is likely to have a devastating effect on the local harbour community, tourism and businesses.
“The site, a waterside haven on Cumberland Road, is a great Bristol success story; open all year with one of the highest occupancy rates in the country.
“Year after year, campers liven up the area, bringing summer trade and a vital winter lifeline to local businesses. Some local organisations and companies are very concerned for their own future should the site close. There simply is no alternative campsite in Bristol.
“Closing the only campsite in central Bristol also flies in the face of the national campaign to inspire people to holiday in the UK.”
The site, which is renowned for its beautiful surroundings, won the 2013 Bloom Award last November – an achievement which acknowledges the skill and hard work of Caravan Club site wardens who preserve the attractiveness of the park in various ways – but the council believe the site would serve better use as a school due to the growing number of primary age children in Bristol.
The council, under the conditions of its lease with the Caravan Club, is able to serve notice at any time and must give the club at least six months’ notice that their occupation is to end.
If you wish to get behind the campaign and save the Baltic Wharf Campsite please click here and sign the petition.