Features / things you probably didn't know
Once you see these across Bristol, you will start seeing them everywhere
The future is bright, the future’s yellow on Small Street.
In the heart of Bristol’s Old City, the chunky canary yellow structure has replaced a more subdued metal vent which often blows out hot air; not the only hot air expelled on Small Street with the Crown Court opposite.
Found across Bristol, the vents are always located above underground substations – but this new colourful version clashes terribly with the historic streetscape.
is needed now More than ever
This absolute unit is outside the historic Guildhall on Small Street – photo: Martin Booth
The vent on Small Street before it was replaced – photo: Martin Booth
The substations supply high voltage electricity, with the metal ‘chimneys’ above ground used as vents to prevent heat and gas building up below.
Once you see one, you’ll start seeing them everywhere.
They can be both big and small:
A typical vent with a supersize vent behind it on Coldharbour Road in Redland – photo: Martin Booth
They are known by some as pillars or chimeys:
A classic battleship grey vent on Park Road in Stapleton – photo: Martin Booth
This vent on Cowper Road in Redland still has what appears to be its original name badge – photo: Martin Booth
They are often hidden in plain sight, until you look out for them:
The vent on Cheltenham Road, between Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road – photo: Martin Booth
More yellow versions:
It’s all yellow on Berkshire Road in Bishopston – photo: Martin Booth
It’s less yellow on Dean Lane in Bedminster – photo: Martin Booth
It’s scuffed yellow on Woodland Road – photo: Martin Booth
This vent on Greville Street in Bedminster has a colourful background provided by Upfest – photo: Martin Booth
The more you look for the vents, the more you are likely to find:
Woodland Road might be unique for having two vents – photo: Martin Booth
West Street in Old Market looking towards Trinity – photo: Martin Booth
On the corner of East Street and Regent Street in Bedminster – photo: Martin Booth
Looking up Park Street towards the Wills Tower – photo: Martin Booth
Opposite the BRI on Upper Maudlin Street – photo: Martin Booth
Like many vents, this one on Wick Road in Brislington has a poster attached to it – photo: Martin Booth
Main photo: Martin Booth
Read more: Rooftop swimming pool for historic Guildhall
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