In a bid to revitalize the Bristol City Centre, a major transformation project is set to take place this winter. The focus of the project will be on the faulty fountains and pedestrian spaces within the Centre, aiming to create a more welcoming and functional environment for residents and visitors alike.
Project Overview
The three-month project will involve filling in the faulty fountains that have been causing issues for many years due to limited water storage capacity underground. Additionally, more space will be created for pedestrians by replacing the current wooden decking with a flat surface across the area. This move is expected to provide more room for events and people traveling through the Centre, ultimately making the area more functional and accommodating to the various needs of the community.
Enhancements and Upgrades
As part of the project, five “overgrown” trees will be replaced with smaller blossoming trees that are better suited to raised planters. The current London plane trees, which have outgrown their planters, pose a risk to the area due to their large roots pushing out and damaging the planters. By replacing them with smaller trees, the Council aims to ensure the safety and stability of the area while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
Moreover, the promenade area will be upgraded with a light-colored surface and a large new artwork, enhancing the overall look and feel of the Centre. Platforms will also be built over three sets of steps along Broad Quay, providing space for activities like street food stalls, further enriching the experience for visitors and residents.
Long-Term Vision
Looking ahead, the Council is considering making the cycle track alongside the promenade more visible to reduce conflict between pedestrians and cyclists. Currently, the cycle track blends in with the pavement and is often overlooked by pedestrians, leading to potential safety hazards. By making it more visible, the Council aims to create a safer and more efficient environment for all users of the Centre.
Liberal Democrat Councillor Andrew Brown, chair of the economy and skills policy committee, emphasized the importance of these changes in making the Centre more accommodating to the diverse needs of the community. He highlighted the potential for more events and activities to take place in the Centre once the revitalization project is completed, underscoring the Council’s commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive space for all.
Sustainability and Community Impact
In line with its sustainability goals, the Council plans to repurpose the trees that are being replaced by turning them into woodchip for use in biomass boilers. This initiative not only promotes environmental responsibility but also contributes to the local community by supporting schools and leisure centers with sustainable energy sources.
The project, which is part of the City Centre and High Streets program funded by the Council and the West of England Combined Authority, is expected to cost £365,000. Temporary alternative locations for the street food market are being explored to minimize disruption during the works, ensuring that businesses and vendors can continue to operate seamlessly.
As the project gears up to commence in January, Councillor Brown expressed gratitude to the community for their patience and understanding during the transformation process. He reiterated the Council’s commitment to creating a more spacious, vibrant, and safe environment in the Centre, emphasizing the collective effort needed to bring about positive change for all stakeholders.
In conclusion, the revitalization project in the Bristol City Centre marks a significant step towards enhancing the overall experience for residents, visitors, and businesses in the area. With a focus on functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, the project sets a precedent for future urban renewal initiatives, showcasing the Council’s dedication to creating inclusive and thriving communities.