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Family of Pc Rehaan Akhtar Press for Harbour Barriers as Council Reviews Bristol Waterfront Safety

The review will weigh safety changes against the needs of a working harbour.

Overview

  • Akhtar’s family paid tribute and urged Bristol City Council to add more edge barriers after his November 2025 death in the harbour.
  • The Harbour Committee’s safety review will examine the number and placement of escape ladders, add lighting in dark spots, and consider clearer boundaries at the water’s edge.
  • Committee chair Andrew Brown said any fixes must not block boats or quayside work because the harbour stays in daily use.
  • The family say CCTV shows his final moments and they believe he fell from a boat jetty, and they want railings closer to the edge plus more lighting and steps to help people climb out.
  • A public petition is pushing for action after Avon Fire and Rescue recorded 13 accidental drownings in the city between 2014 and 2022.