What happened when “unruly residents” took over Lawrence Weston?

In a display of grassroots grit and community spirit, these locals wrestled back control from distant decision-makers

Our Fair Future has teamed up with Antidote to bring you stories of people building a future that works, and they’re doing it in communities just like yours, showing what’s possible when we take charge together.

They were once written off as just another struggling estate, plagued by poverty and overlooked by the powers that be. But the determined residents of Lawrence Weston, a working-class community on the outskirts of Bristol, have staged a jaw-dropping turnaround—and it all began with a bold plan to take matters into their own hands.

Back in 2012, this so-called “unruly” neighbourhood stunned onlookers by launching a resident-led development plan, going door-to-door to ask every household what they truly needed. What followed was nothing short of extraordinary.

In a display of grassroots grit and community spirit, these locals wrestled back control from distant decision-makers. They devised their own housing policies, shaped a neighbourhood development blueprint, and made sure their voices couldn’t be ignored.

But they didn’t stop there.

Fast-forward to today, and Lawrence Weston has bagged a brand-new supermarket, a bustling community centre, and even its own shuttle bus service. They've lovingly restored old orchards and, in an eco-friendly masterstroke, erected England’s tallest wind turbine—owned and operated by the residents themselves to generate sustainable income for future generations.

It’s the kind of transformation that defies expectations—a powerful message that you don’t need piles of cash or fancy qualifications to make a difference.

What began as a community with little more than determination is now a beacon of resilience and pride. Against all odds, the people of Lawrence Weston have rewritten their story—and the nation is taking notice.

Watch Mike Pepper in the video below to find out more.