Bristol Council Uses Zoom

Bristol City Council will soon use Zoom for virtual meetings.

06:27 20 April 2020

Bristol City Council's first public meeting since the coronavirus crisis will be held remotely. The planning meeting, which is scheduled for 22 April, will take place via Zoom video conference. Members of the public will be able to watch it live on YouTube but they will not be able to speak or participate in the meeting. However, they are encouraged to submit written public statements, questions and petitions in advance of the meeting, as is usual. 

 

It is the council's first foray into virtual public meetings as the council takes all necessary measures to prevent exposing anybody to the Covid-19 and help the country flatten the curb. 

 

Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees said: "Technology really has come to our aid here, giving the opportunity to continue vital council operations while also observing social distancing. 

 

"Using video conferencing will enable the process for decision-making to be made remotely in a way that is lawful, transparent and fair." 

 

Meanwhile, neighbouring South Gloucestershire is set to follow suit and now prepares to hold meetings virtually. 

 

A spokesperson for South Gloucestershire Council said: "Our Information and Communications Technology (ICT) team are currently working on the technical options for the introduction of virtual meetings.

 

"We will keep residents updates as progress is made."