When Sal Caseley moved to The Dings from Redfield with her husband, Roy, over 33 years ago it looked a lot different than it does today. “We had a friend who lived down here at one point, which is how we knew the area in the first place,” says Sal. “Just seven streets make up the Dings, and when we first moved here there was only one child. It was mostly elderly people.”

Over the years, the demographic of the local area changed drastically. “More and more families moved in, and of course that meant more children. Many of those families still live here today, so now there’s a real strong sense of community,” adds Sal.

The area continues to develop, with a new Bristol University campus coming soon and the ever-growing Temple Quay nearby too. But what appears to be stronger than ever is the community spirit, and Sal chairs The Dings Community Association. “It was founded over twenty years ago, and we meet every couple of months to discuss any concerns within the area,” she explains. “We also maintain the street planters once a month, go litter picking regularly, and put on a fun day every summer. The event is hosted in the local park and we have face-painting, a bouncy castle and games for the kids. It’s a great opportunity to bring everyone outside and get to know each other.”

Many of the roads in The Dings are zoned so pedestrians and cars share the road. “The idea is children can play outside quite safely in the street,” says Sal. The couple are selling their home but are only moving around the corner along with their dog, Freckles. “Roy retired and we’ve found a property better suited to us, but we wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. It’s so lovely and quiet down here, I can’t think of any other area in Bristol that’s like it,”

So, what would Sal say to anyone looking to move into the area? “Welcome!” she says, smiling. “We’ve had plenty of new faces move to The Dings over the years and there’s always someone to talk to. We’re all close, and the neighbours will always come out to have a chat with you.”

Sal is currently selling her home, Birkin Street, with us. Contact us to book your viewing.