How a flea market under the M32 is helping transform a 'deprived' area of Bristol

Organisers of a flea market underneath the M32 say it is helping uplift a derelict space once blighted by prostitution and drug pushing.

The M32 Flea Market has been running for two years in Eastville and in that time has grown to feature a variety of local crafters and artists.

The market was launched by LitterARTI, an organisation which attempts to bring communities together through events and other projects.

One of its founders, Annali Grimes, said she wanted to help transform the underpass which was considered "dangerous" by residents living nearby.

“When we started working in Eastville underneath the motorway, the only thing positive here was the DIY skatepark," she said.

"It follows in the legacy of the old market which was held in the Ikea car park years ago."

Annali added the market has transformed the underpass and "reconnected" communities since it launched two years ago.

"By bringing events and people into the space, the M32 underpass is transformed into a vibrant and friendly space with the community coming together," she said.

"The M32 has cut off the communities in the area, such as Fishponds and Easton.

"These communities were once connected in the past and through the market we are reconnecting them.

Source: https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/m32-flea-market-dates-eastville-3545152/