Reflections and Priorities: Bristol Initiative Wraps Up 2024

On December 4th, members of the Bristol Initiative convened at We The Curious for the final quarterly meeting of 2024. This event provided an opportunity to reflect on the year’s achievements and outline priorities for 2025, with a focus on collaboration and addressing the key challenges facing the city and region.

Bristol Chamber & Initiative President Dr. Justin Morris opened the meeting by reflecting on his tenure, which began during a period of significant change for the Initiative. Justin highlighted the establishment of the Bristol Advisory Committee as a key achievement during his presidency, providing a strategic forum to address regional issues. He also announced that he would be stepping down as president to focus on his day job at Bristol Zoological Society, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to work with the Initiative and emphasising the importance of continued adaptability and innovation in shaping Bristol’s future.

Next up, Donna Speed, CEO of We The Curious, our host for the evening, began with a look back at their journey to re-opening since their fire in 2022. “Bristol is a great place to have a crisis” - Donna highlighted the resilience and ambition of the city and shared We The Curious’ journey through significant challenges. Despite these setbacks the organisation continues to be a beacon for science and education in the city, guided by its inspiring mission: “What if everyone is included, curious, and inspired by science to build a better world together?”

Setting the Agenda for 2025

Next, Victoria Matthews, Director of the Bristol Initiative, shared some updates from around Bristol and revealed the Bristol Initiative’s refreshed priorities for 2025, underscoring their commitment to supporting regional growth and inclusivity. These priorities include:

• Transport: Advancing critical infrastructure projects to enhance regional connectivity and economic capacity.
• Placemaking: Building on the pillar that the Bristol Initiative was founded upon to ensure the city remains a vibrant, inclusive, and an attractive place to live and work.
• Skills: Addressing regional skills gaps to support businesses and enhance workforce resilience.
• Tackling Deprivation: Championing initiatives that ensure all communities across Bristol and the wider region can share in its success.

Insights into Regional Growth and Collaboration

Next, Andrea Dell, Director of Futures West, introduced herself and The Futures West Foundation for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth, a new project powered by Business West, and the most significant development that Business West has supported since the inception of the Bristol Initiative over 40 years ago.

Andrea underscored the need for evidence-based approaches to drive economic growth and influence decision-making at both regional and national levels. She said that Futures West is intended to pave the way for a new wave of investment and prosperity in the wider West of England region. As we know, our region is often overlooked when it comes to investment, yet it plays a vital role in the UK's long-term prosperity.

The project, set up following Initiative Member feedback, also aims to tackle the region’s long-term challenges to raise productivity, prosperity, and innovation. Its research will provide the evidence base needed to better inform policy and attract investment.

Andrea called for greater engagement from members ongoing to ensure Futures West and the Bristol Initiative remain well-informed and representative of regional needs, noting that effective collaboration is critical to addressing challenges such as productivity and infrastructure.

Addressing Bristol’s Complex Challenges

The final presentation, delivered by Alex Hearn, Director of Economy of Place for Bristol City Council, provided an analytical perspective on Bristol’s current challenges and opportunities. Alex addressed critical issues, including transport infrastructure, housing shortages, and entrenched deprivation. He highlighted that Bristol’s economic health is deeply interconnected with that of the wider region, stating:

“If Bristol thrives, the region will thrive. If Bristol suffers, the region will suffer.”

Alex outlined key areas of focus, including long-term transport investment, regional planning to address housing needs, and sustainable approaches to infrastructure development.

After his presentation Alex stayed to answer questions from members. One notable question was addressed:  “Do we have the right mechanisms in place to collectively address climate and social challenges?”

Alex responded “I’d like to think we do. We have the mechanisms for planning etc. We have more of a network, ecosystem, money, and institutions in Bristol than many other places.”

Members then had some time to catch up, connect and meet fellow city leaders over festive drinks and canapes, provided by We The Curious’ catering partner Double Puc. There was a lovely atmosphere, as We The Curious had decorated their events space for the festive season with lights, Christmas trees, stars, and snowflakes. 

We’re very grateful for We The Curious hosting us in their fantastic events space. If you’re interested in hiring their space you can get in touch here –  https://www.wethecurious.org/venue-hire/events 

Looking Ahead

The December meeting served as a reminder of the vital role the Bristol Initiative plays in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the region. As we look toward 2025, the collective engagement and expertise of members will remain central to achieving our shared goals.

The next Bristol Initiative Quarterly Members’ Meeting will take place in March, hosted by Burges Salmon. This event will build on our work across 2024, aligned with our refreshed priorities and providing further opportunities for members to engage with key issues and contribute to regional progress.

For those interested in becoming more involved in shaping the future of Bristol and the region, membership in the Bristol Initiative offers unique opportunities to collaborate with regional leaders, access expert insights, and influence decision-making. Contact us to learn more about joining this dynamic network.