News / Bristol
Last ditch bid to save historic Cattle Market Tavern
A last ditch effort is being made to save the Cattle Market Tavern and restore it to provide a link between Bristol’s past and future.
The fate of the historic pub near Temple Meads looks sealed as it is earmarked for demolition to make way for the new £300m university campus.
An initial view of plans for Bristol University’s new £300m campus by Temple Meads
But Bristol and District Camra and the Bristol Civic Society have issued a joint appeal calling for the building, which currently stands as a derelict wreck, to be retained and restored as part of the area’s regeneration plans.
is needed now More than ever
“We believe that the potential for this pub is immense,” says Peter Bridle, chair of Camra’s Bristol group.
“Given its proximity to the campus and all the other potential catchment, including the forthcoming expansion of businesses in the Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone, we believe the university need to find an operator who is prepared to invest in the pub.
“Equally, as the university are owners of the site, we hope that they would not only retain the pub building, but also invest in it as they would then get a financial return from leasing the building. Although the initial costs might be quite high, the pub’s potential for attracting customers would recoup any investment.”
Bristol Wood Recycling Project currently use the Cattle Market site and are looking for a new home
Built in 1910, the Cattle Market Tavern used to serve the workers in the nearby sorting office but closed in 1997 when Royal Mail moved to Filton.
Campaigners argue its survival would provide an important link between the past and future of the area and have written to the university asking for its supporting in saving the pub.
Adding his backing, Simon Birch, chair of the Bristol Civic Society, said: “Currently, this building is in poor repair and is unlisted. However, it is an interesting building that is soundly constructed from good quality materials.
“It would provide local character and its individual quality, set alongside a massive modern development, would create an individual statement. A blend of the old and new in the spirit recommended in the Enterprise Zone Spatial Framework.”
A floating boardwalk could soon link Temple Quay to the future site of Bristol Arena as part of the area’s regeneration plans
A spokesperson for the University of Bristol: “We’re designing our new campus to become a vibrant part of the city and provide an open, inviting space for the local community.
“We have already been consulting with our neighbours and key stakeholders through the first stage of public consultation which closed earlier this week. Responses will be included in a summary feedback report helping to inform the next stage of the plans.
“We will continue to liaise with key stakeholders and talk to the community at every stage of the process to ensure we create a campus that the whole city can be proud of.”
The university is keen hear people’s views on the emerging campus and is encouraging individuals and groups to get in touch with their thoughts and questions by emailing temple-quarter@bristol.ac.uk.
Read more: Historic Cattle Market Tavern to be demolished
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