BetterThe Civic Society magazine Bristol Issue 08 Spring 2016 bristolcivicsociety.org.uk

In this issue l Heritage forum launched l Historic hospital saved l Tomorrow’s city region ... And much much more

an independent force for a better Bristol The Bristol Civic Society, Registered Charity No. 244414 Better Bristol Spring 2016 Better Bristol Spring 2016

Page CHAIRMAN’S PIECE CONTENTS 7 4 NEWS AND NEXT AGM Civic Society – here NEWS 6 Civic Society heads new Heritage Forum to make a difference

CIVIC SOCIETY IN ACTION n this issue we bring you the to generate new partnerships, create new 8 Major Sites Group Planning launch of the Bristol Heritage projects and generally acknowledge the City wide role of the Society. However, we did Applications Group Forum, a partnership initiative OPINION conclude that possibly the most significant between everyone with a obstacle to the future development of the 22 Eugene Byrne recalls 75 years Front Cover: TOMORROW’S Iconcern for the City’s heritage. Society is the extremely small number of after the Blitz. Is Bristol Better? The much loved St Nicholas market 11 CITY REGION active members. The addition of even two The role of the Civic Society or three members willing to become more A jewel of the city’s heritage, wins The regional Spatial Plan POLITICS on the Forum is to galvanise involved and lead initiatives would make national award – See page 5 and what it means for Bristol 24 On Brexit and local elections different interests, to co-ordinate an appreciable difference. We now have a Photo credit – Tracey Feltham activity and to actually “make a range of activities which appeal to a wide HERITAGE & range of interests and you may well find CONSERVATION TRANSPORT difference”. something to grab your imagination. For 14 25 City’s Transport Chief responds Gatehouse A number of you have asked what the example, the current panels for both Blue to article in last issue EDITOR opens real point is of the Forum – will it just be a Plaques and Design Awards are formed of Dave Cave to the public. talking shop? Well I sincerely hope not! A volunteers who are enjoying the challenge 26 JOIN US HERE good example of its potential value would of the work as well as contributing to the DESIGNER Old BRI building be the plight of St Michael’s on the Mount, Possibly the most significant success of both activities. When reading Tracey Feltham (Charity Universal) saved. EVENTS & MEETINGS now vacant and boarded up for nearly 20 obstacle to the future this edition of Better Bristol I urge you to have a hard look at what you might be able 27 Spring – Summer 2016 years. In my view this could not possibly development of the Society EDITORIAL PANEL DESIGN have happened if the Forum had been in to contribute to the Society – I’m sure you is the extremely small will all find something that you can offer. I Alan Morris, Simon Birch, 18 The neglected work of Sylvia Crowe. existence during that time – a vigilant eye number of active members look forward to hearing from you. Eugene Byrne, Jeff Lucas would have been cast on all buildings at Mr Gane’s forgotten Pavilion risk (and especially on such a well loved, This initial session was very much the start Simon Birch CONTRIBUTORS prominent and historic building) – and action would have been taken, the building of an ongoing process – we didn’t reach Alan Morris, Simon Birch, John Frenkel, any clear strategic conclusions and will Chair, Bristol Civic Society Page would have been championed, publicised, John Payne, Tamsin Mosse, Sarah and a new lease of life found much earlier. reflect before moving forward. Of course Murray, Wendy Tippett, Eugene Byrne, 18 Without the Forum we have still travelled the launch of the Heritage Forum is a major Jeff Lucas hopefully and indeed are now talking strategic initiative which has the potential positively with the church owners. PHOTOGRAPHY At the beginning of the New Year some Jeff Lucas, Page twenty Civic Society “activists”spent a very Contributors 16 useful Saturday morning closeted in the Youth Hostel on Narrow Quay. The purpose DISTRIBUTION TEAM was to start the process of developing a Led by John Payne strategy for the future of the Civic Society. We looked first at a Bristol without the Society – CONTACTS & ADDRESS would anyone notice? Would developers run See page 26 amok? The conclusion was that we weren’t entirely sure, which is worrying in itself! We WEBSITE looked at what other Civic Societies do, www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk aided by the attendance of Freddie Gick, Chairman of Civic Voice. But many examples PRINTERS were of much smaller towns quite unlike the situation in Bristol with so many existing local Sebright, Bristol societies involved in civic activities. St Michael’s on the Mount – vacant and boarded up for nearly 20 years. Articles are the opinions of individual authors and do not necessarily represent Not already a member? See page 26 for those of Bristol Civic Society. Page 14 Why not join TODAY! more details...

BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk AGM and Civic Society – new initiatives NEWS The Society has taken on a number of new Society’s good reputation allows us to take Discover East Bristol NEWS presentation initiatives in the last 6 months, as reported on these roles. The bad news is that it is There’s more to Bristol’s by the Chair. Chief among these are leading yet more work for a motivated but hard- scenery than just the Avon 4 of design the Heritage forum, and running the Blue working core team. Gorge and Clifton Downs 5 Plaques scheme. It is encouraging that the We really DO need more hands at the pump.

A new interactive online map funded by NewsCity awards Bristol 2015 Neighbourhood Arts Project highlights some of the hidden corners Tuesday 7th June Getting involved with the Civic Society and wide open spaces of east Bristol. St James’s Priory, From wild and craggy Troopers Hill to Whitsun Street. There are many ways you There are several VACANCIES the serene and can get involved. Come and that need to be filled: much more in between. This year we are again holding the Society Secretary AGM and the presentation of the http://discovereastbristol.co.uk/ join our campaigns and This is the main administrative role that Design Awards on the same evening working groups. Paper copies may also be found in and in the same venue. We are legally has to be filled. Main task is arranging libraries, tourist centres, Hamilton House returning to St James’s Priory after a We need writers, photographers, artist the executive meetings and AGM and

Civic Society News and many other venues. very successful Civic Voice Convention for our publications. Organisers of keeping records. held there last October. Members are events. Administration. Members of Executive Committee cordially invited to both events. Vice-Chair (Chair-Elect) No experience needed, come along and Editor for Better Bristol New energy learn the ropes, only requirement is A Metro Mayor for The current editor is re-locating away enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and being from Bristol (yes, really!). So someone is supplier Bristol A Dead Duck computer savvy. needed urgently to take on the next issue in Greater Bristol - or Done Deal? You’ll be working with others, benefitting October. The current editor will assist with Energy is in it for to be a growing consensus that there is from their support and friendship. the next issue if required. Nobody seems to quite know. In the budget of 2016 the Chancellor much that will benefit the region, not least the social good announced plans for the West in improving transport. This is something that the Society has long advocated. There of England Combined Authority is already considerable co-operation on Bristol Walking Alliance devolution. the key issues. This will give the West of Past and current Civic Society Chairs with England – the four unitary Freedie Gick a the Civic Voice Convention authorities including Bristol that make up the existing AGM at 6.30pm partnership - new powers over The AGM will be restricted to improved transport, planning, South members only before the public Bristol Energy, the first municipal energy skills and employment. Gloucestershire Design Awards event, in order to company in the South West and one of The West of England will encourage a more open and frank Bristol the first in the country, is officially open for also receive control of a discussion on the how the society business. The energy supply company was £900 million investment has performed in the last year, the created by Bristol City Council in 2015 to fund over 30 years to boost raising of any issues and our plans be a force for social good. It is leading the economic growth. A lot of North for the future. way as a new model of energy company The Society is a founding member of Greater Bedminster Community preparatory work has gone Bath & North that contributes to the wellbeing of East Somerset Design Awards at 7.30pm the Bristol Walking Alliance, started Partnership, Living Streets, Sustrans, and into this, as evidenced by the local communities. signatures of the four leaders in 2015. The alliance campaigns to SHINE (Supporting Healthy Inclusive Eagerly awaited awards presentation on the agreement. to the cream of Bristol’s developments improve Bristol’s walking environment, Neighbourhood Environments) Team. Got a point of view? completed in 2015. Bristol’s Design recognising that walking can be a There will be a BWA launch event as part Response has been predictable: The Greater Bristol or West of England area on the one hand there are those who Oscars are a closely guarded secret neglected mode of transport (see article of the Bristol Walking Festivalon Tuesday reject anything that smells of the hated The elected Metro Mayor will have ...well except for the winners who will by Suzanne Audrey in October 2015’s 17 May, 6.30-8.30pm at The Watershed, Avon and domination by Bristol, on the considerable authority but his/her be there to accept their plaques. bookable online. Better Bristol). Alan Morris is the BCS other hand those who see it as a dastardly powers will be subject to veto by an representative in BWA. Other member More information at Please contact the editor: plan by the Tories to hide cuts by sham executive. A process for their election organisations include Bristol Ramblers, bristolwalkingalliance.org.uk [email protected] new grants and hand-outs while avoiding will have to be agreed. Will this be a troublesome Labour councils. There seems major stumbling block? Petition: Council let the Pavilion be used National award for St Nicholas Market for Harbourside community events The ever popular St Nicholas ceremony at The Great British crafts, giftware and food. It has a huge Crest Nicholson built the Pavilion as part become that of a corporate events asset Market in the centre of the Old Market Awards, in Birmingham. variety of stall holders and traders, with for the Council. The petition calls for it something to appeal to everyone, and of the planning agreement for the Canon’s City has beaten off competition The permanent indoor market buildings to be returned to its intended use by is committed to offering opportunities Marsh scheme. It was intended to serve from markets from across the and outdoor stalls are home to the largest to new start-ups and businesses, with as the “village hall” for the Harbourside the community. At the Civic Voice Convention in St James. country to be named one of collection of independent retailers in support of the Bristol Pound. Lighting effects not guaranteed! community. However, it appears that the http://epetitions.bristol.gov.uk/epetition_ Britain’s best at an awards the city offering a variety of quality Picture – see cover marketing and use of the building has core/view/pavillion BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk 6 Heritage NEWS BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY 2015”. http://hc.historicengland.org.uk/ report of theheritage Counts “Heritage Englandproduces anannual stateHistoric are diminishing. resources conservation time whenexpert projectsata development andtransport ongoing pressure from onthisheritage andgardens. parks historic Yet there is 4,000 Listed Buildings, andwithmany Areas,by withmore Conservation than with over onethirdcovered oftheCity hasatremendousBristol builtheritage and residents across right thecountry. to visitors, businesses importance is ofkey There isawealth thatheritage ofevidence Heritage F W hy aBristol announced at alaunchevent inF orum? Heritage F I nitial proposals for aF

of theBristol prove to beaninvaluable additionto Forumconsiders thata Heritage would theCivic Society Bristol direction. In Nottingham are moving inthesame although othercitiessuchasLeicester and ForumA Heritage isarelatively idea, new O blogs/our-inherited-city http://designbristol.ning.com/profiles/ found at forumheritage inBristol. canbe This report proposes establishingacommunity-based FrameworkHeritage 2015–2018” which produced –Bristol City “Our Inherited Council hasrecently City addition, Bristol In of thenationalandregional context. providesThis report aninvaluable summary launch ur I nitial P The roposals

orum orum were l l l Its objectives would objectives belikelyto include: Its Council.England andtheCity closelywithbothHistoric which worked would beanindependent bodybutone involved activities.Ideallyit inheritage the existingstructureandorganisations and initiatives. generate ideasfor future activities, events for Forum thenew gather support andto ofthelauncheventThe isto purpose capacity.building community veritable datingagency”.“heritage a facilitating collaborationandpartnerships, value ofheritage. Sharing knowledge and best practice, andbestpractice, knowledge Sharing initiatives heritage and Co-ordinating awarenessRaising andpromoting the ebruary Old city hasmany hiddensurprises city Old The mostlikelywork streams willinclude: to create capacity. community awards. possibleheritage practice, Helping events, related publicising heritage best iv) Helpingto deliver training, holding plans, policiesandappraisals. Bristol’siii) Ensuring iscared heritage for in and planningapplicationstages. places. This would includepre application projects affecting buildingsand historic developments andtransport ii) Influencing buildings. andotherhistoric Buildings At Risk i) Helpingto findsustainablefuture uses for further defineaims andobjectives, to further We are establishingasmall executive to W Café onCorn Street ofourarchitectural heritage? part Above right, –Will thisbecome Above detail left, hat next? willhappen

Alison BromilowAlison Bristol CivicSociety Simon Birch projects andexamplesofbestpractice. highquality in order to celebrate particularly We willassessthescopefor Awards Heritage abilities inorder to deliverevent. afirstclass ideas, inspirationandsheerorganisational annualevent. important We for are looking this Autumn. We hopethiswillbecome an We willbeorganising event aHeritage and initiatives relating to Bristol’s heritage. information onactivities provide up-to-date We willbeproducing aregular ebulletinto activities. co-ordinate andto explore methodsofworking Treasures Market, ofOld once almostlost On neglected Stokes neglected On Croft

www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk Heritage 7 FEATURE 8 Civic Society in action FEATURE BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY on theGroup’s work John Frenkel reports Spring 2016 2015 to A G M C utumn roup (MSG), ajor Sites ivic S ociety inaction ociety T former HSBC (Midland) Bankto ahotel.former HSBC(Midland) doorGradeIIlistedLloyds Bankandthenext proposal the GradeII*listed to former convert Hotels’ Harbour supports The Society in St. Mark’s library Venice. for thatdream architectural luxuries of hasnouse abandon them.Onlinebanking issadto seetheirformerlegacy. owners It Bristol’s Street Corn banksare aremarkable Corn Street highlights ofrecent activities. These are theedited in thecentre ofthecity. more redevelopment here hasrarely been of whatthedevelopers propose Below,An impression – Wharf Redcliffe public consultation. theschemeatforthcoming support Garden onto Redcliffe Way. will Society The entrance through therestored Quakers’ flats for sale. There pedestrian willbeanew use, homes;1,2and3bedroom andnew of ground floor retail and workshops, office beside Redcliffe Bridge. There willbeamix area Redcliff of quay liesunderneath Parade a design to redevelop Redcliff Wharf. This Complex have Developments published Redcliff Wharf Above, Bank. formerHSBC(Midland) ofStMarks.library bystreet. Gingell, Designed inspired by the Above former Lloyds left, Bank53-55Corn on Plot 3 Temple Quay. The site isbetween hotel and conferencehigh quality facility ofa theconstruction supports The Society Temple Meads inCastle Street and surfeit Tower Hill. to reduce thetarmac has anopportunity withtheCouncil, thedeveloper partnership podium.In Nichols above theHarvey point tower ofsimilarheight to theEclipse, component. The developer proposes a manage asubstantialaffordable housing of thedevelopment. Asociallandlord will flats. Aninstitutionalinvestor willletpart theschemeto buildaround 230 supports Health ClinicandCastle Park. The Society Dening’sStation whichliesbetween Central the site oftheformer Central Ambulance Bouygues willredevelop Developments Castle Street directions suchasthestationandBathRoad. to accessfrom develop pedestrian other remains abouttheprogramme concerned buttheSociety Road the site to Cattle Market bridge connects new Parcel A Office. Sorting the regeneration oftheformer Post Office inward investment. The Arena couldleadto Zone oftheEnterprise andshouldseed part former railway dieseldepot ‘island’. The site is large schemewillredevelopvery thewhole chose following apublicconsultation. This Arenaseat Bristol whosedesign theCouncil the12,000 strongly supports The Society million regeneration –whichdevelopers Bedminster. When complete, the£100 in Road and to thesouthofMalago been identifiedonthelandsurrounding project, awiderregeneration area has outcome for Place theStCatherines Following thesuccessfulplanning C railway station. river Malago The culverted EastSt,Metrobus andarejuvenatedlinking Bedminster Green) hub to create atransport Plans plaza(thenew includeanew homes, including250affordable. – coulddeliver upto atotal of800new areUrbis now callingBedminster Green This willbeadifficultapplication for the at peakhoursand frequently atothertimes. cope? Traffic around theBRIisata standstill movements eachday. Can the localroads that there would beover car 3,300 new new would generate.park The Society’s guessis figures thatthelarger car ofthecarjourneys The Hospitalhas notuptillnow, published Street,Marlborough 120placecarpark. Hospital haslongaspired to replace the place multi-storey for carpark theBRI. The 820 anew isunableto support The Society BRI carparking around aredeveloped Bedminster Station. new ‘town green’ hub andbuildatransport build alarge homes, numberofnew create a thisambitiousproject to supports Society borders itto thesouth. embankment The andDalby Road Avenue.Malago The railway develop “Bedminster Green”, whichincludes stageisUrbis’sAlso atanearly to masterplan Bedminster onceentrancedbuildersandplanners. curve Pithay Buildingwhosemonolithicconcrete welcome plansto remodel thedifficult tolet willsoonbeconsulted on The Society the views of the views Temple Station. Meads that theheightofhotel mustnotharm agrees EnglandandtheCouncil withHistoric stage.scheme isatanearly The Society Valentine’s andthestation. Bridge The Bedminster Green Site C Robinsons Houses andConsort B Regency A St Catherines Place N eighbours: A traffic congestioninthecentre ofthecity. the publicalsowantCouncil to reduce the Hospital’s wishto improve accessbut Council to decide. The publicwillsupport and landscapingto create aboulevard. with widenedpavements tree-planting spine through thesite would beimproved on thecentralDalby Avenue thatforms a gardens.community The publicrealm with connecting alinearpark to make would beopenedupwithwater features Hospital UpperByron Place St. Mary’s (former Nuffield) heritage assets in a conservation area. assetsinaconservation heritage to justifythetotalquality loss oflocallylisted proposed replacement buildinghassufficient The Council willhave to decidewhetherthe within abuildingofcharacter.of apartments building couldcreate asubstantialnumber redevelopment withinthemainhospital yet to persuadePegasus Homesthat to redevelop thesite. has The Society to demolishtheformer hospitaland proposal hasseenafourth The Society residents andwhere local. the affect greatest numberof centreon city developments, which process. MSGtends to concentrate of large earlyinthedesign projects tofor meetdevelopers theSociety iscritical a planningapplication. It public consultation before making scheme developers to opena The Council persuadesmost major [email protected]. who wishesto join,pleasecontact The Group welcomes any member The sixweeks. MSGmeetsevery www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk

B Civic Society in action in Society Civic 9 FEATURE 10 FEATURE CivicI Society in action BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY spaces andbuiltenvironment. improving thebestofouropen object to subsequentproposalsobject which we a planninginspector. PAG iscontinuingto whose decision wasupheldatappealby was refused by theCouncil permission inresistingobjectors oneproposal which PAG, local hassupported theSociety to development pressure, however. Through open land, inahighvaluearea, issusceptible Area. Such oftheConservation character to the componentcontributing isakey It land. andtheBlaise Castle park Airfield massive residential development atandnear to provide alargely green linkbetween andhaspotential Hill and southofHenbury separates residential development north an abundanceoftrees. This openland with of thebuildingisopenparkland a useto which itiswell suited. The setting residential care homehasbeenpermitted, conversion Church. tothe Methodist Its a in College Park Drivehasbeenvacated by pressure atwork. The former Wesley College Taking examples, two we canseethis Pressure Space onOpen cases, inthecity. longer distanceviews would theirsurroundings and, harm insome screens andotherproposals that for adverts pressure againstLEDilluminated advertising follow. PAG uptheSociety’s hasalsokept residential examples development. Some on valuedopenspaceandinappropriate autumn andwinter have beenthepressure the applicationsconsidered by PAG over the issues thathave beenprominent among of life ifitisnotwell inBristol steered. Two andquality thecharacter bit, itwillharm issmallinscale, bitbychange inthecity direction. Althoughmuch This isimportant. developments are headinginthewrong whereSociety’s concerns itfeels proposed development pressure. PAG voices the manage thedirectionoftravel from arising public input,adoptsplanningpoliciesto This Council, ishealthy City andBristol with behind thegroup’s work in detailonindividualcases, group convenor JohnPayne setsoutthephilosophy busyinthelast6months. The Insteadofreporting Group hasbeenparticularly A G Planning A growth andprotecting or tension accommodating between Bristol, therelike willalways bea n anexpanding, dynamic city utumn 2015to Spring2016 roup (PAG) and Hotwells. intodistance views thesite from Clifton oftheproposaltest theimpact onlonger PAG plannersto theCity hasalsoasked Ashton to Gate Leigh Woods. the largely openandruraltransitionfrom and thefloodlightingwhich would alter fromarise thehighfenced football pitches estate.the adjoiningAston Court This would Bower Area Ashton andupon Conservation that itwould onthe have impact aharmful pavilion, PAG from asports apart considers this would notresult inbuiltdevelopment, weather floodlit football pitches. Although and theraillineto Portishead for eightall- ClanageRoad use theopenlandbetween PAG hasrecently considered aproposal to residential environment, andoverlooking the surrounding area orcreating apoor sites, poordesign harming on particular These includeputting too muchhousing inappropriate for reasons. various come forward. schemes, Some however, are ofmany oftheschemeswhich supportive residential development andis inBristol recognisesThe Society theneedfor Development Pressure for Residential space surrounding theCollege. development ontheremainder oftheopen would undoubtedly increase pressure for permitted,Area. development here If oftheConservation and thecharacter feel would to thisopenarea beharmful conversion anduseasacare home. The the buildingshave over beentaken for closed itsdoorsto studentsin2011,and The former Wesley Theological College pplications been withdrawn. West Street, to whichPAG objected, has screen of atthejunction Trinity and Road been lodged, however. Anotherproposed objected. Anappealby theapplicantshas in Lower Castle Street to whichtheSociety refused aLEDscreen west ofCastlemead encouraging thattheCouncil isvery light. It cases becauseoftheirintense farreaching inmost harmful The latter are particularly anddigitalfor LEDscreens. advertisements PAG considerasteady stream ofapplications Adverts andLEDScreens in Bishopston. Totterdown Road andat65North Streetof Goolden andBathwell in Road are objections located atthejunction of poorproposals where PAG lodged properties. of neighbouring Two examples build four large villas. current owners, hencetheapplicationto which are, itseems, notrequired by the college wassetinsubstantialgrounds evening, isinformal. andourstyle three weeks, generally onaMonday different backgrounds. We meet every contributions from peoplewith The group benefits greatly from [email protected] to meat: come to PAG meetings, pleasewrite planning issuesandyou would like to youIf are interested of inthesesorts N are always welcome ew M embers ofPAGembers

W T discussions. contributed to the andhas city nature oftomorrow’s fundamental to the believesThe theseissuesare Society Plan, inAutumn isexpected 2016. stage, options thenext thedraft establish thepublic’s preferred ofconsultationsAfter aseries to needs upto 2036. andinfrastructure housing, transport of how we deal with theregion’s question The planwillface important a smallerarea thanthewholeSW? Partnership. Maybe itworks better for mis-named curiously West ofEngland GloucestershireSouth that form the and Somerset Bristol, Bath, North of authorities just thefour unitary is more modest, andcomprises planning. This timethetarget area for anotherfixof regional Spatial away. We now have theopportunity But theneedfor planningnever goes muchforSo ourefforts. ditched thelot. quangoortheapproachSWRA and of 2010decideditdidnotlikethe However theCoalition government needs, fortransport theentire region. housing development, infrastructure, framework interms oflanduse, document that setoutadetailed with animmensestrategic planning spent hundreds ofhoursgrappling Back in2008membersofthisSociety from Bristol to Cornwall. millionsofpeople affecting decide fundamental policies other members, was setupto councillors and of 119co-opted This body, unelected madeup South West Regional Assembly. may recall the grandly titled withlongmemories Readers Spatial plan omorrow’s C est ofEnglandjoint spatial plan S through design. quality lifestyles andcreates asenseof community development which promote healthy location andnatureentail apattern, of and affordable housinguntil 2036 and The planshould meet theneedfor market Housing &wellbeing : objectives The consultationsuggeststhefollowing key Key objectives infrastructure shouldbe. housing anditsemployment andsupport The plansetsoutto where determine allthis homes by 2036. England area mustcreate another85000 Government hasdecreed thatthe West of plan seeksto do W needed. meaning thatmore homesare living aloneorinsmallerhouseholds, living longer. More peopleare also thatweimmigration, are andthefact hat thespatial factors: economicgrowth,factors: to rise. This isdueto several population oftheUKisset ofacatastrophe, the hort ity Region ity 85000 additionalhomesto builtonAvon’s be be maximised. The useofbrownfield landshould assets. andheritage local context design thatpositivelyquality responds to withhigh atitsheart have placemaking and risk, climate changeandminimiseflood shouldrespond to thechallengesof It . and countryside ofthe identity WoE’s cities, towns, villages, and character andtheattractive quality orenhancetheenvironmentalMaintain Environment travel patterns. andsustainable public transport and employment locationsshouldfacilitate pressures oninfrastructure. housing New development existing doesnotexacerbate The planshouldensure thatnew Transport &Infrastructure in theStrategic Economic Plan for the WoE. ofjobsidentified deliver thescaleandtype locationswhichwillmostsuccessfully new of bothexistingemployment centres andin economicgrowthThe planshouldsupport Economic growth green andpleasantlandby 2036

www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk Photo credit: KatieStokes Planning 11 FEATURE 12 Planning FEATURE BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY l l l l W spaces located? be and employment these new homes W T parks. as housingorurban agricultural value, andmightbebetter used landscapeor Belt landisofhighquality and relaxation isinevitable. NotallGreen that thegreen beltrulesare too restrictive theentirely take opposite view, Others back yard”, theshire residents mightsay. most ofthisburden onthecity. “Not inmy brownfield dumping landthatsoundslike As probably Bristol hasmostofthe brownfield sites andbuildingup.* increasing ofhousingon thedensity that thegreenbelt hasto beused, instead projected 85,000homes, anddon’t accept should notbehived way off to make for a that Green region BeltlandintheBristol For many, the Green Beltissacred. They say is thesituationwe are now in. is madeto thegovernment to justifyit. That The Green Beltcanonlybeeroded ifacase sprawl.vast urban into one andpreventbetween theirlinking Weston, andBaththeplacesin Bristol well, to maintainaclearspacebetween For over 60years theGreen Belthasworked developments. by buildingupwards inhigherdensity on precious existinggreen spaces, or or (land previously usedfor industry), but onlyby buildingon ‘brownfield’ sites Green Belt. More homescanbeprovided, boundaries, ofthe butby therestrictions limitsareThe city defined, not by council Gloucestershire cannotexpand outwards. inSouth andKingswood Stoke Bradley ofFilton, anditssuburbs of Bristol One thingiscertain. areaThe urban Housing andCommunities Board. the West ofEnglandPlanning, * Councillor Rees, Elfan chairmanof Ap or totally settlements. new locations, basedonsmallvillages Other smaller towns. Town expansion,expandingthe into adjacentcountryside. extensions, expandingcities Urban withinourtowns.a higherdensity intensification, building Urban to e have several choices: here willall omorrow’s C urban area tourban to jobs maximiseaccessibility possible withinandadjacentto theBristol implications offocusing asmuchgrowth as isto testThe ofthisscenario objective the oncommutingpatterns. the carandimpact Green Belt. They would increase reliance on simply thoselocationsnotlocated withinthe arebe considered upthisscenario to make The possiblestrategic locationswhichcould shown ontheabove plan. oftheGreenextent Beltwithinthe WoE is no changeto theexistingGreen Belt. The ofadditionalgrowththe impact assuming isto assess The ofthisscenario objective spatial scenario 1: Five spatial scenarios T asking forasking comment –summary forward ofscenarios anumber andis Bristol urban areaBristol urban Concentration at Spatial scenario 2: Protection ofGreen Belt he C location ofnewdevelopment. combination determine thechoice of and 4(othertowns) shouldinsome (Bristol-focused), 3(Transport-focused) suggeststhat scenarios 2 The Society additional accommodation needed. single scenario islikelyto provide the where newhousingshould go, no possible ‘scenarios’ for planning consultation for the Scenarios: JointSP Spatial Plan(J T T his is a summary ofourcomments his isasummary he S ociety hascommentedociety ontheI onsultation document hasput Looking atLooking thefive ity regionity W oE P ) Can we raise thecity? withoutspoiling thedensity artnership’s Joint Spatial Plan

good raillinksinto thecentralareas. locations closerto orhaving centralBristol Priorities would befor development at viable publictransport. more locationssupports people inurban massof addition,thecritical cycling. In to beshorter, and encouraging walking theselocationsdistancestravelled tendIn forchoices are development. thepriority areas Urban thatalready have goodtravel towardsand orientation publictransport This isbasedonproximity to centralBristol the Green Belt. of onthecurrentadverse extent impact wouldThis scenario have asignificant located elsewhere across thesub-region. specifically excludes strategic locations oftheplanarea. in otherparts The scenario whilst minimisingdevelopment and services Transport focussed Spatial scenario 3: rule out possible urban extensions for extensions rule outpossible urban than landjustbeyond. We mustnot more protectionnecessarily deserve ofthegreenboundaries beltdoesnot belt area. atThe theouter countryside unquestioningly to theexisting green the planarea, itisunrealistic to hold the green beltaccounts for 48%of increase inhousingisrequired and review ofthegreen belt. When an18% Green belt: ssues andO We are infavour ofa ptions Urban intensification: green infrastructure inBristol. retained to linkupwiththeexisting Bristol, aslonggreen ‘wedges’ are opportunities. exploresThis scenario the localissuesand and experiencing a rangeofqualitiesandcharacteristics towns, villagesandruralareas exhibiting The WoE isadiverse area withcities, spatial scenario 4: Green Belt andthesettingofexistingtowns. ofthe onthecurrentadverse extent impact options whichwould have asignificant includesseveralThis location scenario from page11) (Continued follow through withmaster planning, locations,intensification and in certain should develop astrategy for pursuing But itisdifficult to Bristoldo. Council journeys. andleadsto shorter services, infrastructure and existing transport infrastructure, becauseit makesuseof without damaging essential green solution, where itcanbeachieved ofthe intensification inBristol aspart weprinciple are infavour ofurban the sub-region development across A more even spread of

in Quality ofnew development:Quality area.the existing urban in order to unlockthefullpotential of mechanisms, funding andnewdelivery how higher density can bedesignedhow well. higher density cities onthecontinent that demonstrate housing. There are ofexamples of plenty and produce low volumes ofaffordable wasteful ofland, have poorconnectivity, developments,low-density whichare discourage volume housebuilders’ large encourage travel, active andpoliciesto to ensure that newdevelopments should adoptpolicies authorities The West ofEnglandlocalplanning objectives orinfrastructure deficits.objectives more solutionsto address bespoke local of growth across theplanarea and/or benefits ofeitheramoreeven spread could beincluded. options andscalesofgrowth which There isarangeofdifferent locational of providing andchoice. more variety benefitsin terms have housingdelivery A greater to rangeofsites isalsolikely

the participants. fundamental disagreement between strategy willemerge whenthere issuch to seehow acoherent sub-regional isdifficult in thelistofspatial options. It ‘Protection ofthegreen belt’ isthefirst green beltshouldnotbereviewed, and in theintroduction to theJSPthat the three oftheLocal Authorities declare parochial when interest, particularly JSP willbeinfluenced by each council’s operate’, we are concerned that thefinal four councils have alegal ‘duty to co- Sub-regional working: Sub-regional of existingsettlements. andbeyond,period or theexpansion which coulddevelop over theplan settlements(notyetinclude new planned) oftheplanarea.functioning This could which would thencomplementtheoverall strategicsmall numberofnew locations concentrate development into asingleor to considersopportunities This scenario spatial scenario 5: expanded settlements) limited numberof New settlement (ora www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk

whilstthe

Planning 13 FEATURE 14 Heritage and conservation FEATURE T BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY Architect’s visualofuppervroom Austin-Smith-Lord LLP came to fruition. Repton thatnever designer Humphry much biggervisionproposed by landscape of a inclement weather and waspart their guestsasaplaceto picnicduring was reputedly used by thefamilyto impress style. Revival in theGothic The gatehouse designed by localarchitect Henry Wood Commissioned by theSmyth family, itwas days before SuspensionBridge. theClifton the mainentranceto inthe Ashton Court The gatehouse wasbuiltcirca 1805as beganinJanuary.main buildingwork out,andthe to allow thebuildingto dry roof waserected in2010 A temporary a heritagegem Ashton Gatehouse – Court having been abandonedfor 50years. currently beingrenovated Estate is Bristol inSouth edge of The Ashton Court gatehousehe derelict onthe 19th century 19th century Tamsin reports Mosse

involving localpeople. Volunteer input muchabout The project isalsovery forpeople whoworked thefamily. Bedminster’s coalminesandthelocal withtheprofits fromSmyths builtpartly life –theprivileged connected ofthe fromstories thegatehouse worlds thetwo Once restored thebuilding willtell the stashed away inwhat remained oftheloft. ofdizzifizzipopbottles and acollection digging outanarea thatwillhousethelift included oyster shellsdiscovered whilst onsitefinds since began.work These have There have beenothermore contemporary moldedceilings. stonework andskilfully remainsevidence ofhighlyornate broken steps andmissingfloorboards, building. Amongstthepigeondroppings, this specialandpotentially beautiful be onsite for almostayear to fully restore BiggsContractors LtdKen are to expected The decaying eyesore set to become South Bristol Community. Bristol South restored buildingisausefulresource for the the renovation the isessentialto ensuring projects associatedinto with thevarious Visual andEnvironmental Buildings Trust. England, The Mercers’ Company andBristol Architectural HeritageFund, Historic grant), withadditionalcapital from the a £550,000HeritageLottery Fund (HLF Learning Trust. Funding hascome from WestCouncil andSouth Bristol Cooperative Buildings Preservation Trust, Bristol City Park Ashton between School, The Bristol The project isleadby adynamicpartnership com/ashtonlodgeBS3 twitter.com/BS3lodge andfacebook. or follow uson [email protected] involved, contact Tamsin Mosse at there are to get what opportunities To findoutmore abouttheproject and Upper room before work began Ashley-Davies Austin-Smith-Lord LLP gatehouse Architect’s exterior exterior view of view

gems rescued l l l work inprogress hard hat to show usround the Sarah Murray putsonher a restoration project thefirststageof after business andvisitors muchopenforvery YardUnderfall is The Floating Harbour’s to complete later thisyear. on2June2015andtheproject isdue works the started Construction Perkins based John protect themfor future generations. Bristol- repair Underfall Yard’s buildingsandto ambitious £4millionprojectto restore and This isanotherexciting milestone inthe Photo credit: Colin Moody Underfall Underfall Yard andtheFloating Harbour. stories, maps, photographswonderful of anddiscover experience learning hands-on visitors ofallageswhocanexplore our 18 March. We to lookforward welcoming the Underfall Yard Visitor Centre onFriday We are to announcetheopeningof thrilled (October to(October Easter). 10am -4pminthewinter (Easter to October). 10am -5pminthesummer toOpen Monday Sunday: Admission isFREE. Buddleia wasremoved and bothexternally sound. asitwasstructurally intervention The 80-foot little required chimney very success oftheworks. different,do notlookvery whichshows the we are thatthebuildings regularly hearing the yard. As thescaffolding comesdown colour andcomplexionofthosealready at thattheslate tilesmatchensuring the and mixforthe correct thelimemortar with thebuildings:thishasmeantcreating inharmony usedwillwork that thematerial buildingsensuring to industrial thehistoric The hasfocused work onsensitive repairs Underfall yard,Underfall historic site, thrivingboatyard andbusinesscentre City Council andmanyCity more. Pilgrim Trust, JPaul Foundation, Getty Bristol Garfield Weston Foundation, Headley Trust, Biffa Museums Award, Wolfson Foundation, Fund,Lottery Association ofIndependent andfunding from: Heritage thanks to support The Visitor Centre hasbeenmadepossible and events. project, aschoolseducationprogramme also cover displays, signage, anoralhistory £3 million,or74%ofthetotal costs, which Fund Lottery The Heritage iscontributing Yard. Underfall andtalentat grow ofskills thecommunity be available businessesto to help maritime diving club. Additional spaceswill workshop respected boatbuilders, ablacksmith anda organisations, includingnationally- businessesand a numberofthriving The Underfall Yard isalready hometo Knuckle’ andinto theyard. Centre, as andaround whatisknown ‘The intowhich hasbeenconverted our Visitor visitors to thebackofPower House, from the endofNova Place Scotia willbring been accessibleto thepublic. The entrance walkthathasnever beforeHarbourside ofthe The project willopenupasection repointed. andthebrickwork internally [email protected] Learning andVolunteering Officer: contact Sarah Murray, Community, member oftheVisitor Centre team then you’reIf interested inbeing afounding anddedication ofourvolunteers.support The Visitor Centre willrely ontheongoing

www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk Heritage and conservation and Heritage 15 FEATURE 16 Heritage and conservation FEATURE BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY become astudent commonroom. The space. ChapelwouldThe lancetGothic inside andoutside between the boundary welcoming socialenvironment andto blur ‘green wall’ would intheatrium create a Alive extension. heightatrium triple new wouldformal openonto a apertures retains theOldHospital’s rear wallwhose for UNITE. headquarters superb The design a would make hospitals. It charity British The OldHospitalwasoneofthefirst four restored to theiroriginal design. to would seethewindows like The Society unifying, horizontal platbandssevered. windows. The cillswere lowered andthe Street oftheMarlborough the symmetry gain.Pastconservation alterations spoiled of thedullcementrender would beamajor Old Hospital’s facadeandthereplacement The removal ofthepipeclutter from the thescheme. supports The Society to Bristol’scontribution redevelopment. to thebuildings, itwould beasignificant imaginative conversion would give life new would move into theupperfloors. This lower floors, two UNITE’s headquarters Asmallmedicalschoolwould occupy the scheme to reuse buildings. theselandmark soon to beredundant hospitalpublisheda UNITE Students, thepurchasers ofthe January, In listed asbuildingsofmerit. the buildings, whichtheCouncil have campaigned toThe retain Society Hospital transplants -continued – saved! Universal C ‘anywhere’ building. bed-sit, eight-floor, a new800student Chapel to makeway for Building andMortuary T new leaseoflife andUNITEHQ School asaMedical The landmark(butunlisted) oldBRIbuilding(Charity Universal) getsa BRI OldHospital imminent lossofthe issue lamented the he Better Bristol Autumn harity harity the other buildings to develop two purpose the otherbuildingsto purpose develop two thedemolitionofall supports The Society from the Whitson Street. alone; thewholesidewallwould bevisible scheme would allow theChapelto stand Architects visual, office new and medcal Rio architects schoolbehindoldBRI- architectsArchitects modelfrom St-Rio Whitson design studentblocks. ofthenew process for Unite’s architects to publishthe intheplanning istooJames Priory. early It block willoverlook theGradeIlisted St. Hospitals.Dental To thenew thesouth-east block would betallerthantheEye and LowerIn Street Maudlin theproposed new blocks. ofthenew could mitigate theimpact theoptionsthat Space limitationsrestrict studentaccommodation blocks.the new abouttheheightandmassof concerned On Whitson Street andLower Maudlin behind theOldHospital. built, studentaccommodationblocks retention oftheOldHospitalitis Street 19thcentury, rubblewallsenclose the publicgainproduced by UNITE’S the site. would acceptthe The Society Whilst the Society isresponsiveWhilst theSociety to John Frenkel reports loss ofthewallsifreplacement units for itto befinanciallyviable. buildings offer amore street active scheme mustdeliver 750student thatthe frontage. UNITEasserts The old BRIonMarlborough Street George and Railway, the notorious Sorting George andRailway, Sorting thenotorious complexoppositeGate thestationramp, the inthearea, includingthe properties Temple The councilhasnow acquired significant Shed’, inBrunel’s original station. already thecentre ofabooming “Engine the area around Temple Station, Meads is ofthearea. At itsheart derelict parts plan for rejuvenating or therun-down This SpatialFramework isanimpressive of onlinepublications. These canbeviewed at http://www.bristoltemplequarter.com/spatialframework Bristol Council City hasnow publisheditsvisionfor the TEMPLE QUARTER ENTERPRISEZONE inaseries public realm places andnew people-friendly T emple Quarter emple Quarter 1 CITY POINT ACQUIRED T A emple M 2 ll changeat 5 station and at the arena. Better walking and station andatthearena. Better walking , attheproposed entrancesto new the squares,new atthebottom of St Victoria ispromised,Much withthecreation of term. investors intheshort/medium area area isthe mostattractive to property for ongoingredevelopment. The Gateway road realignment shouldgettheballrolling former highway landreleased by Temple Gate infamous Grosvenor site. These sites and andisnegotiatingOffice, forthe even more E 4 3

GEORGE & RAILWAY C A 6 7 D B ACQUIRED? eads open spaceswitharevived Totterdown Basin. on and The Friary. walkways waterfront New thestation crossings. Busesandtaxiswillserve to thestationandstreet connections cycling in parts ofthe zone. in parts high buildings, andthelackofgreen space expressed aboutpossible someconcerns the process couldbehelped. We have the consultation,suggestingways inwhich hasresponded positivelyThe Society to E Promenade bridge D StPhilips footbridge to arena C Arena (built) bridge B Lock at bridge Totterdown Basin bridge, A Silverthorne N Cuton thebankofNew green7 Anew space centre of water basedactivity 6 Totterdown Basinredeveloped, a 4, 5Arena Plaza andterrace to thestation squares2,3 New adjacent 1 Temple square place–new P rincipal Places ew Bridges IN NEGOTIATION? GROSVENOR

www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk Design 17 FEATURE 18 FEATURE I Design BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY of theM5. was Bridge builtaspart the River Avon, adecadebefore the movement over and Bristol Docks scheme allowed continuous traffic andAshtonBridges Gate Junction infrastructure theCumberland Basin the expanding national highway the Nova Scotia pub. of As part LockJunction Swingbridge near south hadto negotiate thenarrow the Portway, astraffic heading was causinglongtraffic jamsalong of carownership andleisure travel the endof1950sexpansion across includingBristol. Britain, By muchoftheinfrastructure re-model Ashton Gate, theroad schemeincludes the Stretching amilefrom to nearly Hotwells road scheme.Junction Bridges andAshton Gate the Cumberland Basin Landscape associated with conceived by DameSylvia Crowe Wendy Tippett Sylvia Crowe, 1: part The Bristol schemesof landscapes Unloved to tuberculosis, Crowe ‘s onlysubsequent Home educated from theageof10due formation in1928. sincewithin theLandscapeInstitute its is regarded influence asapioneering Commonwealth inLondon. Institute She (the largest inEurope) reservoir andthe celebrated schemesincludeRutland Water work withtheForestry Commission; other Crowe for isbestknown herconsultancy Dame Sylvia Crowe (1901-1977) engineers were attempting to plannersandhighwaypowerful changes ofthe1950sand60s- n theera ofsweeping postwar explores landscape theurban Extent ofScheme, 2012aerialview.Extent unique setting within sight of the Clifton unique settingwithinsightoftheClifton scheme hasthebenefitofadramaticand The dynamicsculpture oftheroad (1901 –1977). Landscape Architects, DameSylviaCrowe mostsignificantby oneofourcountry’s and thelandscapesettingwasdesigned of theriver. covers 14.7ha(36.4acres) It andsouth plethora ofsliproads to thenorth and four large interchanges providing a Plimsoll Swingbridge, thefixed Bristol City CorporationBristol City Engineer JB stations andhighway schemes. universities, private gardens, power included publichousing, newtowns, 70 years hervaried landscapework widely.and lectured acareer In ofnearly wrote many influential books andarticles, designer in1927at theageof26.She life herworking asagarden starting College,Swanley Horticultural before mainstream education was two years at Corporation appointments. and was thefirstofthree Bristol City her smallLondon office from 1963–1967, trusted reputation. The occupied project an establishedprivate anda practice President ofthe LandscapeInstitute, with influential position asa recentvery Past 60s, at theheight ofherpowers, ina Shewas inher out thelandscapework. Crowe hehadthebestpersonto carry consideredBennett incommissioning in traffic and pollution concerns impacted impacted in trafficandpollutionconcerns into disrepair. The unprecedented growth were notadequately maintainedandfell amenities, theplay equipmentandfountain Piazza oftheCumberland popularity landscape’ projects. Despite theearly ofalotCrowe’sThis istypical ‘working blending elementto thewiderlandscape. scheme, becomingthesettingand oftheengineering road the functionality thisschemeaccommodatesin itsown right, Never fully recognised as a landscapedesign Decline seating, andmature trees. fountain, nauticalthemedplayground, café, budget, andincludedanexuberantspiral for approximately 50%ofthelandscape flamboyant Cumberland Piazza accounted hardof modern materials. Hotwell’s shrub planting, andarestrained palette shaping’,‘land tree structural andmass – attempting to humanise theroad with different agesandamenities for families to provide playgrounds for children of the lastmoving trafficwithseparate routes; screening; to segregate from pedestrians environment, withrespect to and views scheme withinthewiderlandscape ofthe project wasto lookattheimpact response to thehighlyintrusive engineering andClifton Clifton Wood terraces. Crowe’s andbelow thefamous Suspension Bridge Crowe Sylvia by BCC andthelocalcommunity. run down andwaseffectively abandoned beganinthe1970s,neglect itbecamemore on thearea. Oncethedownward spiralof UK website (www.parksandgardens.org) however, feature ontheParks &Gardens does Interest inEngland. It Special Historic on theRegister ofParks andGardens of been damagedorlostfor itto beincluded although toohas muchoftheoriginal fabric in post-war schemes suchasthisone, someinterest Englandisnow taking Historic The way forward Landscape Institute archives, MERL Piazza Landscape Plan – Bristol Records Office. Market StallsonthePiazza – to theirongoingprojects. Crowe’s schemeinto considerationinregard Greville Smyth Park (FroGS) are alsotaking asAshton Meadows.known The Friends of continuesto championtheareaWickham Piazza, whilstlocalresident Stephen proposing to regenerate theCumberland Smithare by Ray spearheaded currently Cliftonwood Association, Community upgrade individualareas: and Hotwells There iscurrently somelocalinterest to recent Explored. book Bristol and forms thebasisto Walk 8of Tim Mowl’s create isstillevident. valuableviews use ofmassplantingand shaping’‘land to spaces undertheelevated highway andthe scheme to thewiderlandscape, theflow of road project. The strong relationship ofthe Sylvia Crowe ashermostcomplete built significance due to itsassociationwith The landscapeschemeisofnational – seebackpage walk through theCrowe landscape inJune Wendy willbeconducting anextensive Kenyon Architects.Andrew Wendy Tippett isLandscape Architect at

www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk Design 19 FEATURE 20 FEATURE B Design BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY Breuer mostfavourite saidthathistwo Movement”. Towards theendofhiscareer ofthefigure history inthe world “Modern animportant der Rohe, Breuer isneverthless quite andMies onaparwithCorbusier Van architecture.on American Although not influential mainly intheUSAandwere very designed andbuilthundreds ofbuildings, chair. them,Breuer Between andGropius the stilliconic “Wassily” tubularsteel practice. Whilst attheBauhaushedesigned joined Walter Gropius in ajointarchitectural Bauhaus, to life anew intheUSAwhere he from Germany, where hehadtaught atthe stay inthe UKinthemid1930’s enroute Marcel Breuer hisbrief (1902-1981)during exhibition buildingdesigned by architect PavilionThe Gane was asmalltemporary for themoment. lifebrief andnolongerexists-at least Pavilion,Gane whichsadlyhadavery -the ofModernism footnote inthehistory reason why shouldhave Bristol atleasta However, there isanotherlittle-known did notbuildinBristol. 20 years ofhislife though inClifton, andhisfamilylivedLubetkin thelast Westbury-on-Trym, andBerthold do have Concrete House”“The in Wills Tower, isfaux-gothic. Butwe building, 20thcentury the early apposite that ourmostfamous show-piece pavilion to restore thisshort-lived 1936 andlooksat plans West ofEnglandshow of Jeff Lucas goesto the Royal his time way aheadof furniture maker Modernist of aBristol The legacy T architecture. Perhaps itis modernist early century greatly of20th inthehistory ristol doesnotfeature he G ane P very progressivevery ofdesign. onthesubject CroftonGane who was director ofthefirm, commission from thefar-sighted managing company P.E.Gane Ltd asaresult ofa The pavilion was builtfor furniture theBristol Pavilion inBristol. UNESCO buildinginParis andtheGane buildings thathehaddesigned were the A fly-thtrough created Jeffby Lucas If thePavilionIf canberebuilt we feel that itwould prove to beasignificant cultural asset ofBristol.for the City Plan ofthePavillion avilion combination of modern and rustic materials andrusticmaterials combination of modern wallswereinternal timberclad. With its wall. ofthe Some with onegentlycurving height planesofglassandrough stone full comprised inBristol.Ashton It Court the 1936Royal West ofEnglandShow at furniture company madeby theGane at The Pavilion wasusedto exhibitmodernist View oftheoriginal1936pavilion View possiblity ofrebuildingpossiblity thePavilion insome the author)came together to explore the of architectural enthusiasts(including Last year theGane Trust andasmallgroup anniversary ofthat show.anniversary theshowafter closed. This year seesthe80th downpavilion anddisposed of wastaken latter’s Barcelona Pavilion of1929. The Gane by andMies Corbusier Van egthe derRohe work made withnear-contemporaneous movement. canbe Interesting comparisons prevailing “international style” ofthemodern fromit wasasignificant thethen departure could provide are inprogress. allstillawork and different usesthatthe rebuilt pavilion stage-issuesoffunding,early possiblesites the UKasatravelling exhibition. We are atan stored andmoved to different locationsin design whichcanbedismantled, century 20th display oflocal early for atemporary ideas for building a replica, in timber, perhaps form orother. We are currently exploring asset for ofBristol. theCity it would prove to beasignificant cultural the PavilionIf canberebuilt we feel that working closely.working onParkCollection Street, withwhomwe are orthrough thestaffat Stradling Society realise usthrough it,pleasecontact the Civic our vision,ormaybe even want to help us this project orhave any ideasaboutfulfilling you to would of discussanyIf like aspect Pavilion -clickonthat!). PavilionGame andaskifyou meantGane (a search for itwillinitiallyreturn results for andcafe canbeseenon gallery You Tube how arebuilt pavilion couldlookasa Gane A short “fly-through” videoclipshowing All B&Wpics–Copyright withthanks RIBA,

www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk Design 21 FEATURE NEWS NEWS

22 75 years on from the Blitz 23 Opinion smut and smog of the city centre onto airy given that all this was going to be paid for and which are nowadays almost forgotten. estates and homes with gardens and inside by the taxpayer, and at the war’s end Bristol Some of the awful things that happened Was a Better bathrooms. Central Bristol would be “zoned” duly applied for huge amounts of money in the central area – aspects of Broadmead, for different activities and would, of course, and planning powers. cheap and dreadful office blocks – were not Opinion feature a marvellous new shopping centre. The whole thing of course was dashed over the planners’ fault, but resulted from political Bristol the People and goods would move quickly a couple of cold winters of austerity. Re- lobbying and legal bullying by big business. around the city on wide new roads and – planning had to wait, to be implemented You also have to wonder whether we are remember we’re talking about the 1940s piecemeal in the coming decades and really any smarter these days. Just as we result? – every family would one day own its own leaving several items of unfinished business, pass judgement on the postwar planners, carriage, something which within living the most notable being that area we future generations will judge us, too. Eugene Byrne memory had previously only the preserve of nowadays call Castle Park. Perhaps our bland and often privatised, the aristocracy. Of course it’s a key element of the Bristol “public” spaces and the stupendous number detonates some The official plans of the mid-40s were Civic Society’s own mythology that by of sterile apartment blocks, promising “the joined by unofficial ones from other bodies. the mid/late 1960s many people were in lifestyle you want in the vibrant heart of unexploded myths Everyone who had some active part in revolt against the more gargantuan of the the city” or some similar such marketing the life of the city offered their views, but planners’ ambitions, particularly the road bullstuff will be condemned, especially everyone was in broad agreement that schemes which were spoiling areas like at a time when affordable homes are in Bristol was not just going to be “re-built” as Redcliff and Totterdown and threatened desperately short supply. St Peters. Copyright Bristol Post, with thanks it was before. even worse things. The postwar planners may have been his spring it will have been rail tunnels into unofficial shelters, there was One of the most striking aspects to this The bigger picture, though, is that much arrogant or delusional, but they were looting of bombed buildings, and a “yellow astonishing outburst of Utopian thinking is of this re-planning did succeed. Those new well-meaning public servants who faced a 75 years since the worst of how nobody, from Whitehall downwards, council houses around the edge of town bewildering range of problems and tackled the Bristol Blitz was over. convoy” headed off to the countryside for safety each night, leaving angry neighbours seems to have realised at first that it was were built, and the people moving into them a lot of them with great success. It would There hasn’t been much in on fire-watching duty wondering why they utterly unaffordable, that the country was were usually going to vastly better homes. be very unwise to claim that the recent and Tthe way of official recognition or should risk their lives tackling fire bombs technically bankrupt. The war was a high- They were also escaping the smells and ongoing development of Bristol is being commemoration, though several falling on the homes of people who had point of British Big Government, it was a smog which were corralled into a few places managed any better. articles in the Bristol Post drew a lot run away. None of this should detract from of feedback from Bristolians who the astonishing courage of many people, and the stoic endurance of most, but one were there at the time, or from their should not take the wartime propaganda of descendants for whom the Blitz is a keeping calm and carrying on at face value. key part of family history. The decades following the Blitz are just as There were six major raids on the city much the subject of local mythology, if not between November 1940 and April 1941, more so. The very word “planner” ended up along with innumerable smaller raids becoming a sort of shorthand in both Bristol and false alarms before, during and after and elsewhere for a pantomime villain who this period. There were also sizeable and was arrogant and often incompetent as well. separate raids on other communities There’s this shorthand view that “they” saw nearby, notably Yate, Weston-super-Mare the Blitz as a golden opportunity to put their and – always the poor relation in Bristol’s insanely megalomaniac visions into action, historiography – Avonmouth. bulldozing away the bits the bombers had One of the most striking aspects of the missed, knocking down characterful old Bristol Blitz when you examine it nowadays streets in favour of awful concrete buildings is the way the loss of life – 1,299 souls - and massive roads. was glossed over. A ruthless government In this 75th anniversary it would be nice if propaganda machine desperate to we could pay a little more homage to these accentuate the positive more or less men (they were all men) and their idealism. covered up Bristol’s ordeal (while at the The “re-planning” of Bristol, well advanced same time playing up the barbarity of long before the war had ended, was a German attacks elsewhere, notably perfectly rational response to the problems Coventry). The Ministry of Information, of the times. Men like City Architect abetted by the press, newsreels and the J. Nelson Meredith had served their BBC, left us a myth of cheerful defiance apprenticeships before the war when slum which future generations have been happy clearance was one of the great priorities, to perpetuate. and would remain so through the 1940s It was like that a lot of the time. And and beyond. St Mary-Le-Port, still a bomb site. on other occasions it wasn’t. There was Copyright Bristol Post, with thanks The vision for Bristol was to move people grumbling and resentment, people turned into decent housing away from the slums, Copyright Bristol Post, with thanks BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk NEWS A war of words Bristol’s NEWS 24 transport 25 over Europe? Transport The Referendum, perhaps the most planning

Politics important decision most voters will ever face, takes place on 23rd June is alive What are the implications for Bristol?

taxpayers any more than they are already market without a load of strings and no BREXIT YES! paying. That’s what I call real investment! influence. It’s likely that the EU will attempt and well But we must not forget the Industries and to make things as unpleasant as possible for Paul Turner Britain to discourage further exits. many jobs that have been lost whist we Peter Mann, Director of The Greater Bristol Bus Network, £80m of realm enhancements across the network. The first thing we need to understand is have been members of the EU in areas In Bristol the greatest impact will be on the Transport at Bristol City investment in bus technology, vehicles, Whilst MetroBus is not the panacea for the enormous difference between what such as medical research and development, “knowledge economy”. Our universities and infrastructure and priority measures, has all traffic problems in Bristol it is a long- the Common Market was and what the steel manufacturing, fisheries and farming. companies working at the leading edge Council, replies to the cemented bus travel as the public transport awaited, massive step forward and will European Union is. Remaining in the EU is no guarantee of jobs of technology will find markets closed, workhorse in the sub-region. In the last transform how thousands of people travel. and prosperity. research collaborations cut and funding lost. article in the Autumn 2015 The concept of working closely with our two years, driven by a combination of this Turning to rail, the MetroWest programme Investment from outside the EU will dry up European neighbours in order to make trade My greatest concern however, not only for issue, “Bristol’s dearth of investment, reduced fares and planned currently has two phases at an advanced without access to that market, and the US easier between nations is a concept that I and Bristol’s future but for the future of the United restraint on commuter parking in Bristol, stage of development (Gavin is completely has made it abundantly clear that Britain – transport planning”. UKIP are 100% in favour of, however this is far Kingdom, is that far from keeping peace bus use has increased by up to 25%. This wrong to say this is on hold). Phase 1 opens or rather England, as the Scots will probably from what the European Union has become. across Europe (this is down to NATO and n the last issue of this publication sort of growth far outstrips other cities and up a new passenger line to Portishead, a leave the UK – will get no preferential deals. We are now a member of a political union large numbers of US soldiers having been Gavin Smith offered his perspective demonstrates that part of the future for town of 25,000 and growing fast, as well as (not a trading union) that the people of based across Europe) the EU has created an If this is all supposed to be about all those on transport planning in the city, transport and travel in Bristol lies in getting the more trains on the and to enormous amount of unrest and conflict, the this country have never been asked if evil immigrants taking our jobs, we’ll see the claiming a lack of expertise and absolute most out of what we already have. Bath by 2020. Phase 2 follows this up with level of which we have not seen since before they wish to be a part of, a union run by loss of many of the educated and highly- Iprogress in this important field. new services to Yate and Henburyand new unelected bureaucrats that cannot be the Second World War, in my opinion it is skilled workers from Europe that help make Like all big cities in the UK, stations to support development at Filton. only a matter of time before this escalates to our knowledge economy work. That’s IT, This view certainly does not align with Few people realise the true complexity of removed democratically by the people of the relentless growth in car the European Union. violence and the collapse of the EU project communications and medical technology, reality; indeed it is insulting to those hard navigating rail industry procedures, most of much like the collapse of the old Soviet robotics and, above all, aerospace. How long working staff who do put commitment, traffic continues to be a major which are rooted in safety standards, making A corrupt European Union whose annual Union, after all there are many similarities. would you give all those skilled jobs at Filton energy and enthusiasm into their profession the UK rail network amongst the safest in the accounts have never once passed audit, if we’re outside the single market? in the public interest. challenge in Bristol. world. At approaching £100m, MetroWest in 2014 the EU’s own internal audit Paul Turner is mayor of Bristol candidate for UKIP is currently the single largest third-party department found that €6 billion had been On the plus side, there might be a few more Like all big cities in the UK, the relentless Bristol was the UK’s first designated Cycling jobs for native British-born cleaners and growth in car traffic continues to be a major promoted rail scheme in the country, so there “inappropriately spent” that year alone. City, generating £22m of investment in is no lack of ambition in bringing this forward. agricultural workers on minimum wage or less. challenge in Bristol. In seeking to tackle new cycle routes and tracks, information, Bristol is a great city especially for small congestion and its worst effects on air quality The regular Government grant allocation to Historically Bristol has always depended on promotion and education programmes businesses and entrepreneurs to start up and and road safety, Bristol rightly looks to a local authorities for transport investment has immigration for both skilled and unskilled which has helped to double daily thrive, however many of these businesses complex mix of solutions, including heavy rail, declined year on year for the last decade, labour. Make your own personal list of the commuter cycling to work – putting Bristol are struggling with the vast amount of EU bus, park & ride, walking and cycling as well being increasingly replaced by more, ad 50 or 100 Most Important Bristolians of way ahead of all other English core cities, produced legislation imposed on them that as seeking to reduce the negative effects of hoc funding opportunities that require All Time and you’ll find that well over half outside London. Despite its hilly terrain, in many cases is not relevant to their business. car travel through appropriate speed, parking effective bidding, often with little notice. The are incomers from elsewhere in the UK or This is preventing these businesses from and traffic management. All of this is rooted there are visibly more and more people on authorities most successful in accessing this growing, expanding and creating more jobs. elsewhere in the world. And if they’re not, in a Joint Local Transport Plan approved by all bikes around the city than any of us can funding are light on their feet, have projects their parents probably were. was the remember. Bike parking is in huge demand I have seen no evidence whatsoever that four authorities in the West of England. and programmes worked up and justified, son of an asylum-seeker, though John Cabot and employers are responding by providing have skilful officers who can present a strong would suggest that the economy of Bristol This huge programme of activity is planned was a mere economic migrant. more and better facilities for their workers to business case, and importantly, have a track would be better off if we remained in the and managed by a dedicated multi- park up, change and store their gear. record of delivery on the ground. EU, many of the area’s largest Companies BREXIT NO! The historic and modern character of Bristol disciplinary team of professionals across such as Airbus have committed to staying Eugene Byrne has been moulded by immigration. Without Bristol and the sub-region supported by Gavin Smith glibly derides MetroBus as That’s why Bristol has secured around £34m in Bristol irrespective of the outcome of the its cosmopolitan nature, Bristol ceases to be consultants who can provide specialist a fiasco, possibly because his “evidence” of Government grant through a range Finding statistics about the likely impact of referendum. All the “EU funding” received a “leading European city”. We will be poorer expertise and capacity when needed. These against it was dismissed at the Public Inquiry of funding programmes for cycling, bus, Brexit on Bristol is difficult. Besides which, in Bristol and the South West is not really culturally as well as economically without professionals have over the last few years in 2012, but fails to acknowledge that the behavioural change, low emission vehicles you know, lies, damned lies and all that … money from the EU it is British taxpayers the EU. We live in an interdependent been highly successful in securing millions £200m programme of three routes across and major highway maintenance since 2012. But let’s try one:i ndependent consultancy money sent to Brussels, the EU keeps half world and Bristol is stronger in Europe. It’s of pounds of Government money through 50km will deliver huge additional capacity In all of this we need to remember that The Centre for Economics & Business of it and sends the other half backing the not rocket science. But then we won’t be robust planning and meticulous business and a significant quality uplift on the public transport does not operate in a silo and Research said last year that over 360,000 form of “EU grants” and “EU subsidies”. So doing rocket science any more if the Little case development work. Supported by transport network, connecting people to has a major impact on how the city looks jobs in the South West were linked to trade in real terms if we left the European Union Englanders have their way. a close knit, cross authority committee of jobs across the sub-region. It will bring faster, and feels. We are committed to ensuring with the EU in 2011. not only could the current level of funding political leaders responsible for transport, this more reliable journeys, better information and that our projects and schemes improve the Popular journalist Eugene Byrne writes for be maintained but it could potentially If Britain votes itself out, there’s no way that work has resulted in investment programmes smart ticketing, as well as secondary benefits urban realm and create a sense a place. the Bristol Post be doubled without costing the British the EU will permit it access to the single not seen in the Bristol area for decades. of new pedestrian and cycle paths and public (Continued on page 27) BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETY www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk Not already a member? Why not join TODAY! Who’s who in the society The easiest way is to go online through our Website. What is the (Transport – continued from page 25) Just go to www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk Civic Society? GENERAL ENQUIRIES Then click on GET INVOLVED and select JOIN THE SOCIETY. EVENTS FEATURE The name means simply ....pertaining to the city. MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY...... Alex Dunn Recent examples include the looks ahead 20 years at how, as a Choose the appropriate form. You can even pay your subscription by Paypal. It’s nothing to do with civic regalia or quaint [email protected]...... 0117 962 2475 regeneration of Champion Square city region, we should meet the 26 Just like that. Job done! customs. We’ve been around for over 100 years. PRESS OFFICER...... Vacant (a Civic Society award winner), need for additional housing and 27 Absolutely anybody is welcome to join us and get " GENERAL ENQUIRIES...... Alan Morris Stokes Croft and the Bear Pit, employment growth and support involved in all our activities . Membership [email protected]...... 07766 442495 better crossings at Old Market and this with appropriate infrastructure Please enrol me/us as member(s) of the Bristol Civic Society Why do we need a ‘Civic Society’ the uplift of the Centre resulting investment. It also seeks to Bristol is about seventh in the league of British As a member, the Society’s from MetroBus. Our infrastructure identify, through evidence, analysis TITLE FORENAME SURNAME cities, and one of the most successful, buoyant and ORGANISATIONAL magazine Better Bristol, investment programme for the and transport modelling, where vibrant places in the country. But its success also CHAIR...... Simon Birch will be delivered to you. brings problems. It has been a magnet for property Enterprise Zone will also see the the existing transport network You will be supporting a developers and speculators since the 1950s. [email protected]...... 07917 403473 riverside opened up to cyclists should be improved to tackle charity that endeavours Population growth puts huge pressure on supply of VICE-CHAIR...... Vacant and walkers with new routes and current problems more effectively. to be ‘an independent housing and services. Since the early 20th century SECRETARY...... John Payne the regeneration of Temple Circus All this points to a revised Joint its suburbs have expanded into neighbouring Address force for a better Bristol’ [email protected]...... 0117 924 0634 creating new public spaces and Local Transport Plan in the next parishes that were once part of rural Somerset and and you will have reduced TREASURER...... John Jones better crossings. 12 to 18 months and forms the rates for attending BCS Gloucestershire, and whose commuter traffic now [email protected]...... 0117 962 0477 Looking to the future, the Joint core of transport planning work in events. competes for space in a medieval street system that was never intended for it. Spatial Plan and Transport Study Bristol and the West of England. I membership@ Many of these old parishes have their own consultation events have been would encourage everyone to get bristolcivicsociety.org.uk COMMUNICATIONS AND EVENTS societies to deal with local issues. Only the Bristol gathering views and information involved with this planning process Postcode MARKETING GROUP...... Jeff Lucas You will automatically receive Civic Society looks at the big picture, and attempts from stakeholders and the public and help shape the future of the [email protected]...... 01275 235435 email bulletins and news to deal with the major issues city-wide. across the sub-region. This work Bristol area for the long term. Telephone about Society events. Bristol has distinctive features that make it special EVENTS...... Avril Baker, John Macrae Please tick here if you to us: its waterways, harbour, green spaces, [email protected]...... 0117 977 2002 Email DON’T want to receive them maritime and industrial history, and its rich WEB and E-MAIL BULLETIN heritage of historic buildings and streets. These EDITOR...... Alan Morris Visit on 17 Dec to “The General”, need a powerful voice to protect them. [email protected] Please return this page to the Membership MEMBERSHIP RATES What does the Bristol Civic Society do? Redevelopment of the WEBMASTER...... David Demery Secretary with a cheque for your first year’s Couples...... £30 We are a voice for the citizens to have a direct say subscription if not paying by standing order in how their city develops. The Society responds to [email protected] Old General Hospital, Redcliffe Individual...... £20 WALKS...... Nic Billaine public consultations and comments on all significant Bristol Civic Society planning applications through its working groups. [email protected]...... 07791 603322 by City and Country Student...... £10 47 Abbey Road But we are a lot more than just an influential voice. BIKE RIDES...... Alan Morris Alan Elkan Bristol We encourage good design through our annual [email protected]...... 07766 442495 Those who were unable to be amongst the 20 members on awards. We help protect our legacy of historic AWARDS SCHEME...... Simon Birch BS9 3QN buildings by leading the Heritage Forum, and run this visit, guided by Helen Moore, City and Country’s Managing [email protected]...... 07917 403473 Cheques made payable to Bristol Civic Society the Blue Plaques scheme that commemorates Director missed a two-hour treat. notable citizens. Our Public Spaces Group engages BLUE PLAQUES SCHEME...... Gordon Young By completing this Gift This is a very complicated group of Grade 2 listed buildings which had with proposals for improving public spaces. We [email protected]...... 07920 574644 Aid Declaration, the been altered and added to in random and uncomplimentary fashion Standing Order Mandate organise regular walks visits and cycle rides to Bristol Civic Society since it opened in 1858. It is being fastidiously renovated for conversion historic corners, and a varied programme of public To (name and address of your bank) can substantially CAMPAIGNING meetings and talks. Members receive this magazine. to some 205 flats and houses, and augmented by some new buildings. increase the value of MAJOR SITES GROUP...... John Frenkel The architects are Fielden Clegg Bradley, and Purcell. your subscription at no What are our aims? ...... PLANNING POLICY additional cost to you by We are not for seeing the city fossilised in time, we Almost every unit differs from the rest, and all have been sold based on claiming a tax refund. recognise that it has to change and adapt to suit TRANSPORT the viewing of the first completed flats and “off plan” such are the very ...... [email protected] ...... 0117 924 0853 fine level of finishes and the marvellous “location, location, location”. “I would like tax to modern needs. We are for blending the new with the be reclaimed on my old: to recognise Bristol’s assets and to encourage PUBLIC SPACES GROUP...... Alan Morris City and Country are also the main contractor so are able to control change through good planning and design...... donation under the Gift [email protected]...... 07766 442495 standards to a very high level, of great benefit as there are 170 site Aid Scheme. I am a UK We wish Bristol to live up to its status as a regional PLANNING APPLICATIONS GROUP...... John Payne staff, with very good memories for finding their way around the ...... tax payer and pay an and past European Green capital, reflected in its [email protected]...... 0117 924 0634 warren of spaces. amount of income tax cityscape, cultural activities and economic life, to be a place its citizens are proud of, and a place HERITAGE FORUM...... Simon Birch Account Number...... and/or capital gains tax Some special features include: at least equal to the tax that people want to visit. [email protected]...... 07917 403473 that can be reclaimed We want to add to the beauty, character and l The pedestrianising of Lower Guinea St to benefit commercial units Sort Code...... on my donation” diversity of the city, and to revitalise areas and LINKS WITH OTHER BRISTOL GROUPS in the stone vaulted lower floor area. These include Casamia Restaurant improve the quality of life for all across the city. We which transferred from Westbury-on-Trym. Please pay the sum of Please tick PLANNING NETWORK do what we do because we care about the city YES NO l A four storey block of 16 flats, at the corner of Lower Guinea St and we live in. [email protected] £...... (...... pounds) annually TRANSPORT ALLIANCE...... James Smith Commercial Road; the shape will allow a good view of the restored We are an independent non-party-political body. elevation of the adjacent original building. Signature [email protected]...... 0117 914 1010 Date of first payment ...... with this magazine CONSERVATION ADVISORY PANEL...... Stephen Wickham l A three storey underground car park off Commercial Road. for members [email protected]...... 0117 966 3848 l The former chapel with original obscured glass windows; these CAF Bank Ltd account No 00087355 FREE BRISTOL WALKING ALLIANCE...... Alan Morris A one-day pass to a National Trust property. cannot be altered to clear glazing due to the listed status so the Sort code 40-52-40 Appreciation of our heritage means Civic [email protected]...... 07766 442495 occupier can’t be a claustrophobic! For the account of Bristol Civic Society Date Society members have much in common with HISTORIC ENGLAND...... John Frenkel So the second of visits to major conversion schemes, the first being Quoting reference (to be completed by Bristol the National Trust. The Trust welcomes members [email protected]...... 0117 924 0853 Bristol Civic Society is a the former Wills Tobacco admin block in Hartcliffe, was another great

Civic Society) to make a visit. There are restrictions – read the BEARPIT IMPROVEMENT GROUP...... Mike Thorne registered charity No 244414" small print before travelling! success, and whetted the appetite for more such events. [email protected]...... 01275 218712 BRISTOL CIVIC SOCIETYSOCIETY www.bristolcivicsociety.org.uk For the summer season we have a stimulating programme of outdoor visits and walks. Spring – A chance to revisit old favourites, or perhaps Events Summer 2016 discover new ones you never knew before! WALKING EVENTS TALKS AND MEETINGS THESE ARE PART OF Wednesday 27th April, Tuesday 10th May at 7.30pm BRISTOL WALKING 6.30pm Bristol Arena Design by Nicholas Reynolds from FESTIVAL Kingsdown – The Populous and Mike Keys from Feilden Clegg Thursday 5th May and Vertical Suburb, led Bradley Studios Thursday 19th May, 11am by Mary Wright International arena design team Populous together with Bath- Walled City Walk An extremely entertaining based architects Feilden Clegg Bradley have developed plans for and informative walk Bristol’s long awaited arena. with Ed Hall around Kingsdown led by The world-class, 12,000-capacity venue will spur the creation of a Meet at 10.45am at the Merchant Mary Wright, local resident, vibrant new quarter in the city, with a design flexible enough Navy Memorial, Welsh Back-near historian and author. Full to cater for a wide variety of events, inside and outside, Glass Boat. of tales about previous throughout the year. Limited to 20 people. Booking residents, historical incidents essential. To book a place text and architectural highlights: Unitarian Chapel, Brunswick Square, Bristol, BS2 8PE. Members: £2, Non-members: £5 suggested (minimum £2) or phone Ed Hall on 0780 500 from the site of an English 7304. Costs: £2 Civil War Fort to the award- winning High Kingsdown Tuesday 17 May, Tuesday 7th June, 6.30pm Wednesday 11th May, development. Duration 6.30-8.30pm AGM and Presentation of 6.30pm and about an hour. Launch of Walking Design Awards, 7.30pm Saturday 15th May, 2pm Meet at: Montague Green - Alliance St James’s Priory, Whitsun Street, junction at top of History of Tobacco Horfield Road and See page 5 for more details See page 4 for more details. Industry with Simon Birch Kingsdown Parade. bristolwalkingalliance.org.uk Urban walk along Redcliff Street, Maximum numbers 20. Tuesday 21st June, 6.00pm East Street and North Street, Booking required. To book optional return routes. a place, phone Nic Billane Guided Walk: The Bristol Schemes of Sylvia Meet at corner of Victoria Street 07791 603 322, Crowe, led by Wendy Tippett and Redcliff Street. or email walks@ Landscape associated with the Cumberland Basin Bridges and Maximum numbers 20. bristolcivicsociety.org.uk Ashton Gate Junction road scheme. Booking required. To book a Starting from Hotwells and exploring the Cumberland Piazza place contact Simon Birch at before crossing over the Cumberland Lock to the Look Out on [email protected] Spike Island, then up and over the Avon Bridge, down into Ashton Meadows, across Greville Smyth Park and down to Blackmoors Thursday 12th and neighbourhood park – finishing back at the Rose of Denmark. It Thursday 26th May, 11am will be rush hour, with busy noisy traffic. Be prepared for lots of Floating Harbour concrete, spiral staircases and care when walking on the pavement with Ed Hall alongside the road. A walk around Underfall Yard, Meet outside the Rose of Denmark pub in Hotwells. Cumberland Basin and the Duration: 2 – 2½ hours. locks to explain why and how Booking required. To book a place, phone Nic Billane 07791 the problems of tides were 603 322, or email [email protected] overcome by the creation of the ‘Floating Harbour’. Thursday 7th July at 8pm Meet at 10.45am at The Cottage Guided Walk: Clifton & Durdham Downs with Pub, Baltic Wharf on the docks. Richard Bland Includes some off road walking A summer evening walk and talk covering interesting aspects of so not suitable for stilettos, the history of the Downs and its role today. buggies or wheel chairs. Limited to 20 people. Booking Meet at the Café Retreat, near the Water Tower by 7.45pm. essential. To book a place text Duration about 2 hours. or phone Ed Hall on 0780 500 Limited to 20 people. To book a place, phone Nic Billane 7304. Costs: £2 07791 603 322, or email [email protected]

Wednesday 28th September, 11.00am Visit: Lower Lodge – Ashton Court A chance to view the Lodge, currently being refurbished. Numbers limited to 20 max. Details to follow