Catherine Withers recalls her father haymaking at Yew Tree Farm in the 1960s, creating a lasting impact on her. Yew Tree Farm is located off Bridgwater Road at Bristol’s southwestern border and is known for being the last working farm in Bristol, housing protected species like adders, dormice, and skylarks.
Recently, the farm has faced threats from developments by powerful organizations, including the expansion of South Bristol Cemetery and Crematorium onto council land historically rented as part of Yew Tree Farm. Withers, along with the Green Party, has been fighting against these developments, which could drastically reduce the size of the farm and harm its wildlife.
The Green Party’s victory in the local elections in Bristol has provided hope for change. Green council leader Tony Dyer launched an investigation into the decision-making process regarding the farm and ordered a pause on any activity until the investigation is completed.
Yew Tree Farm has a rich history, with the Withers family taking ownership of the land in the 1970s. Plans to build 200 homes on the field by Newcombe Estates and Redrow Homes threaten the farm’s biodiversity and its designation as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI).
Critics argue that SNCIs, like the ones at Yew Tree Farm, lack adequate protection, leading to potential habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. The council’s approval of the cemetery expansion plan has raised concerns about the effectiveness of protecting local wildlife sites.
Despite promises from the Greens to halt destructive activities at the farm, mixed signals and lack of clarity have left many questioning the new administration’s ability to deliver on commitments. An investigation into the decision-making process at Yew Tree Farm is ongoing, with hopes of protecting the farm’s biodiversity and natural environment.
The fight to save Yew Tree Farm is ongoing, with concerns about the impact of developments on wildlife and the environment. Withers and environmental campaigners continue to push for transparency and accountability in the decision-making process to protect the farm for future generations.