Winterbourne is a large village on the outskirts of Bristol with a population of some 8500 people. Much of the village is on a hill and is surrounded by woodlands and fields. The Winterbourne Viaduct passes over the local nature reserve and large duck pond, whilst two notable buildings are the 12th century St. Michael’s Church and the 14th century tithe barn, Court Farm Barn. The village could arguably be a small town, having many amenities including 3 pubs, two supermarkets, a dentist, chemist, bakery, post office, library and bank. There are all-weather sports facilities at Winterbourne International Academy as well as a swimming pool and gym. The village has 4 schools including the independent Silverhill Preparatory School. The ‘Harry Potter’ author J. K. Rowling attended St. Michael’s Primary School in the village. The major shopping centre at Cribbs Causeway is 4 miles from the village, whilst Bristol Parkway railway station is just less than two miles from the plot. Bristol City Centre is 7 miles from the site.