The Southville Green Walkway is one of several walkways being developed in the Greater Bedminster Community Partnership area to promote the health and well-being of local people.

The route is broken into sections:

1. 21st century ‘Civic Centre’: there is already some planting on Stackpool Road, but there could be more. Existing art work is faded and tired, but there are many opportunities for new work;

2. School to Dame Emily Park: how, with the support and assistance of its residents, will be made more attractive

3. Dame Emily Park: this section is subject to a separate funding proposal, but the Dame Emily Park Project is part of the community consortium.

4. Warden Road: could made more attractive

5. East Street: BCC and the Bedminster Town Team have already added some big planters, more could be done at this junction

6. Church Road to St John’s Churchyard: art work, more greenery

7. St John’s Churchyard. There is already some sculpture in this historic space.

What we'll deliver:

• Arrange activities that encourage community cohesion and help reduce the risk of social isolation.
• Carry out environmental measures to improve green spaces and public spaces along the route.
• Encourage local residents living along the route to improve their front gardens through the annual Front Garden Awards.
• Encourage walking, particularly with people who are older, disabled or have limited mobility.
• Commission local artists to design and implement artwork for streets and buildings along the route.

Why it's a great idea:

People who live in neighbourhoods where they can walk to local services tend to have better social networks and have more social contacts than those who live in areas dependent on high car usage. Those in walkable neighbourhoods are more likely to know their neighbours, participate politically, trust others and be socially engaged.’ Social Isolation in Bristol (2013), Bristol City Council report.

In addition to their core business, all three buildings and the green spaces are important centres for community activity, the green walkway will create an important link between them. Community development and participation are central to success. Artists will be working with a range of volunteers and be supported by an action group of local people.

The project is made up of many simple ideas that when combined will make a big impact. We expect the project to be easily replicated elsewhere and it is anticipated it will be copied by others.

Steps to get it done:

• Local people and art students from the University of the West of England (UWE) to develop initial plans for the route.
• We will work with the local school to encourage them to improve and adopt green/public spaces along the route.
• We will work with the Southville Community Development Association to manage funding for the project
• We will form a working group to oversee the project and drive it forward.