Here’s why archaeology experts are trying to save this ‘landmark’ Bristol pub from demolition

The Council for British Archaeology (CBA) is urging a reevaluation of the plans to replace The Bull Inn in Crews Hole with a three-storey block of nine flats.

They wrote on their social media: “This landmark pub holds a rich history within the mining community of the Avon Valley, and we strongly oppose its demolition.

“We believe this distinctive and historic building has so much to offer and deserves a future where its story can continue to be told, and its use reimagined for the benefit of the local community.”

The CBA is recommending that Wellington Pub Company’s application is withdrawn and that alternative plans are found for the retention and reuse of the existing historic building.

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The Bull Inn has been a pub since 1803 and the present building has been there 125 years.

In 2021, Bristol City Council revoked its premises licence following breaches of covid rules and reports from residents about fights and noise, before u-turning the following year.

But council planners are now also objecting to the loss of the pub, which permanently closed in 2023 due to debts.

They say the loss of the pub has not been justified and would cause substantial harm to the Avon Valley Conservation Area because of the building’s unique character.

The final decision will be made by the government’s Planning Inspectorate at a later date.