Downs van crackdown raises fears that people may 'end up rough sleeping' View Image

Bristol Live readers have been watching the situation on the Downs closely, and this week Bristol City Council staff will begin the process of moving van dwellers from the site.

Several questions still hang over how long the operation will take and where people will go next. The first step is for council teams to speak with those living in vehicles and carry out welfare checks.

Some may be classed as vulnerable and directed to charities and support groups. Although the process is starting this week, that does not mean the caravans will vanish by Friday. Officers will ask people to leave, and if they refuse, the council will need to apply for a court order.

Green councillor Barry Parsons, chair of t

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