Logistics warehouse in Bristol hopes to see building regeneration

Central Park, the logistics warehouse in Bristol, is hoping that the faster than expected economic recovery could save some of greater Bristol’s most distinctive buildings from the bulldozer.

Planning and heritage expert James Edwards from Colliers International also believes the upturn could make restoring landmarks viable again. He said increasing economic confidence could free up the millions needed to help guarantee the future of heritage sites such as the Tropicana and Birnbeck Pier in Weston-super-Mare.

Mr Edwards, a champion of the West’s built and maritime heritage, said: “Nobody is in any doubt about the problems of maintaining historic properties like these Many of them have not seen any regular maintenance and not surprisingly are in a truly diabolical state. The Tropicana – an attractive art deco classic in its day – really detracts from the seafront at Weston. As time passes it presents an increasing challenge to the group battling to save it for posterity.”

But the Broad Quay-based expert said the fast improving economic picture could make it easier for groups to help save our built heritage. ”The recession pushed much of the renovation works required at these projects on to the back boiler,” he said. “But now the economic conditions are getting a little easier it might prove possible to tap in to additional funding. Similarly, people are more happier to dip into their own pockets when there is less economic uncertainty. This could help turn ambitious but unlikely restoration schemes into economic reality. Although schemes such as the Tropicana rescue package have had the widespread support from the community, they can really struggle without a workable rescue package. The green shoots of recovery are already showing and as more money becomes available some of this will money invariably trickle through to heritage.”

Source: Bristol Post