WORK is under way to fill in a disused cellar under Queens Avenue in Clifton.
An inspection found that the old coal cellar, which runs under the width of Queens Avenue, was in a bad condition and a section of road above was fenced off as a precaution.
Working in partnership with the University of Bristol, which owns adjacent Beacon House, Bristol City Council is leading on the project to fill in the cellar using foam concrete. Construction work began on June 17, and was expected to take five weeks to complete.
While the work is taking place, the pavement that runs alongside Beacon House on Queens Avenue is closed to pedestrians who will be directed across to the other side of the road. Parking spaces alongside Beacon House will also be suspended throughout the works, however, the bus stop on Queens Avenue and access to the nightclub PamPam will not be affected.
John Smith, executive director for growth & regeneration at Bristol City Council, said: “The good news is that we will be able to open up the whole road once the foam concrete has set, freeing up important space for the nearby bus stop and road users. I’d like to thank the University of Bristol for working with us to find a long-term solution to this issue and to everyone for bearing with us while we complete these vital works.”
David Tonkin, associate director of campus operations at the University of Bristol, added: “Beacon House occupies a prominent position in the city for our staff, students and for the local community. We’re very happy to have found a solution to this issue, working closely with the council.”
The costs of the works will be shared equally between the council and university.
Griffiths, the council’s appointed contractor, will carry out the stabilisation works.