Bristol is Britain’s eight largest city. Historically, as a major port, it was the largest city outside London. In the referendums held on elected mayors in May it was the only city to choose to have one and later this week voters will make their choice. All this suggests a certain amount of civic pride and local identity.
Bristol is Britain’s eight largest city. Historically, as a major port, it was the largest city outside London. In the referendums held on elected mayors in May it was the only city to choose to have one and later this week voters will make their choice. All this suggests a certain amount of civic pride and local identity.
Yet Bristol City are (at least until this afternoon) bottom of the Championship, while Bristol Rovers are in League 2. Admittedly, the city has a strong rugby tradition which might suggest that it is not the ideal place to support two football clubs, but even the rugby club is languishing.
Both Bristol City and the rugby club are owned by Steve Lansdown who, with his business partner started what became Hargreaves Lansdown in his back bedroom. (It is essentially a funds and shares supermarket offering a range of financial products: I am a satisfied customer). But wealthy though he is, Lansdown can’t sort out all the problems.
This article focuses on sporting infrastructure, making a contrast with provision in Nottingham. Bristol City have been attempting to relocate from Ashton Gate, but have encountered fierce nimby opposition. However, the problems may go deeper than infrastructure. It’s something for the new mayor to think about.