Bristol City Council meeting breaks UK records

Whilst Bristol City Council hope they have not scored an own goal by approving the new stadium, it seems the meeting broke a UK record in the history of council webcasting.

While the meeting was taking place in front of 200 people at the Council House, a staggering 5,624 people watched the debate live and online.

Council Leader Barbara Janke said: “Our webcasting system has opened the doors of the council chamber to every citizen. Of the 5,000 viewers some of these would be keen followers of football engaging with the council for the first time for the love of their club. Others would be campaigners keen to see that the council had ensured the club heard their concerns about environmental and neighbourhood issues.

“They heard the many and varied views of public representatives, club officials, campaigners and councillors as the plans were explained in detail. And they heard the committee balance the evidence and make their decision.

“Councils across the country have been looking to our lead on webcasting to test its effect in opening up democracy to new audiences. Yesterday a significant audience across Bristol witnessed the decision to take a great step towards a new multi-million pound stadium. So I think we can demonstrate that it works.”