Debate over river barrage plan

The Cardiff Bay project could be a role model for Bristol

A public meeting is being held in Bristol on Wednesday evening to discuss the £40m scheme to create a water park in the city.

The proposals involve building a barrage across the River Avon to provide a vast area for water sports.

But the plan has upset many conservationists because the area is full of wildlife.

Finance for the development would depend on the sale of 60 acres of green belt land in Pill for housing.

I'll be pretty disappointed if it doesn't win public support

Grant Watson

The construction of a deep water lock at the mouth of the river would create a clear water river from Avonmouth through to St Philips and St Annes.

The massive development would provide new sporting and leisure opportunities, and would reduce the mud banks and brown water.

The scheme would probably be based on the Cardiff Bay project across the Bristol Channel.

Greenbelt land

The plans would be funded with private money, but would mean the development of some greenbelt land near Pill.

Grant Watson, senior partner of Alder King, who leads the consortium behind the scheme, said: "There are a lot of things in its favour.

"I'll be pretty disappointed if it doesn't win public support and enthusiasm."

The meeting takes place at St Katharine's School, Ham Green, near Bristol, from 1930 GMT.