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Who are we and what do we do?

Bristol Civic Society is an independent, voluntary organisation that exists to improve Bristol’s built environment and celebrate its heritage. 

Through our working groups, we seek to influence development of major sites, and new planning and transport policy.  And we monitor planning applications.  New group members are always welcome.

We put on a varied events programme, and publish a newsletter, e-bulletin and this website.

We are an active and friendly organisation with over 400 members. Our members come from all walks of life.  We have existed as a society for over 100 years -  see:  past achievements.

Why do we do it?

Bristol has distinctive features that make it special to us: for instance, its waterways, harbour, green spaces, hills, position, maritime history, industrial history, and the buildings, streets, spaces, and architectural design that history has left us.  We wish Bristol to live up to its status as a regional capital, reflected in its cityscape, cultural activities and economic life, to be a place its citizens are proud of, and a place that people want to visit, especially through its buildings, facilities and public spaces.

We are for blending the new with the old: to recognise Bristol’s assets and to implement change through good planning and design.  We want to add to the beauty, character and diversity of the city, and to revitalise areas and improve the quality of life for all across the city.

We do what we do because we care about the city we live in.  We campaign in order to influence how Bristol develops.

We put on events and publish information:

• to stimulate interest in what is going on in Bristol
• to share our pride in what’s good in Bristol,
• to encourage people to help us in making it better.

How can I find out more?

We welcome new members at any time.

Find out more by:

• contacting our  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
• contacting the Chair or one of the group convenors  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
• coming to one of our events or visits