Proposals have emerged to demolish a deteriorated bank building along a prominent road in Bristol, sparking renewed concerns among locals and council members regarding its future. The former Edwardian bank, left without a roof or windows for over a decade, has become a point of contention as its proprietor seeks approval for partial or complete demolition.
Initial plans to erect a six-storey apartment complex in place of the historic bank faced rejection from Bristol City Council earlier this year. Authorities cited the structure’s classification as a ‘local historic asset’, despite its absence from Historic England’s official list.
Undeterred by the setback, the owner has submitted two revised applications. The first, lodged in April, requests permission to dismantle the bank while preserving a section of its façade overlooking Gloucester Road and Longmead Avenue. Subsequently, a second application was filed to ascertain the necessity of formal notification for full demolition.
The neglected building, once utilized as office space, has remained vacant for over a decade. Previous endeavours to transform it into upscale apartments were hindered by the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in the removal of its roof and transforming it into a visual blight in the bustling area.
In the application, the owner highlighted the impracticality of repurposing the remaining structure and advocated for complete demolition to facilitate redevelopment. However, local residents expressed dismay over the potential loss of the building. While acknowledging the step towards preserving the façade, residents voiced concerns regarding structural stability and the handling of the property.
A local councillor, representing the Green Party for the relevant area, echoed residents’ apprehensions while underlining the importance of safeguarding heritage. He highlighted the potential for integrating the historic façade with contemporary design, expressing a desire to collaborate with planners and the owner to ensure a satisfactory resolution.
The fate of the former bank building hangs in the balance as stakeholders navigate the delicate balance between preservation and revitalization. With demolition proposed to commence later this year, the ongoing discourse surrounding this iconic structure underscores broader discussions about heritage conservation and urban development. As the community awaits further deliberations, the future of the building remains uncertain, emblematic of the challenges facing cities seeking to balance progress with historical preservation.
