Underfall Yard reaches major milestone in reconstruction of historic Big Shed

Bristol’s historic boatyard hits the halfway mark of the second phase of its ambitious Recovery and Reinstatement Project, launching a ‘Donate a Slate’ scheme to fund the final phase of restoration.

BRISTOL, UK – The Underfall Yard Trust has officially reached the halfway point in the reconstruction of its flagship Big Shed and adjoining workshops. Following the devastating arson attack in May 2023, the restoration project is aiming for an early 2027 completion, marking a significant step in returning traditional maritime skills to the heart of Bristol’s Floating Harbour

The construction project, carried out by long-established local contractor, Stone BCI, focuses on rebuilding and repairing grade II listed workshops for maritime use including boatbuilding and engineering, as well as community engagement. The completed buildings will mirror their original 19th-century look. The Trust is introducing improvements such as upgraded electrical services and large timber doors on the Big Shed to enhance security and allow the public better views of boatbuilding in action.

The reinstatement will mark a return to a fully operational boatyard; as the biggest workshop on site, the Big Shed will once again be used for the construction and maintenance of larger boats. Beyond commercial use, the Trust is dedicating a specific area – the workshop known as “F4” – as a community and education space to host maritime learning programmes and projects such as wooden boatbuilding courses. With construction reaching this critical milestone, the Trust is aiming to welcome businesses back to the yard from Spring 2027.

Sarah Murray, Director of Underfall Yard Trust, says: “It feels like we have really turned a corner by passing our halfway mark. Rebuilding Underfall Yard is about more than just the structures; it is about ensuring traditional boatbuilding and maritime skills remain at the heart of the Yard and Bristol. We are now entering the final push of our fundraising campaign to raise £25,000 needed for modern improvements that will make the site fit for purpose for 2027 and beyond.”

Steve Sandle, Site Manager at Stone BCI, adds: “Rebuilding the Big Shed, the Yard’s largest fire loss, has been a once-in-a-lifetime job. Bringing up the massive 13.5-metre beams, which weigh half a ton each, to the walls was a significant challenge. With the roof trusses and rafters now going on to the adjoining workshops, we are proud to be part of restoring this Scheduled Ancient Monument to the rigorous standards required by Historic England.”

An Underfall Yard staff member smiles while writing on a slate with a marker. She wears a green shirt.The background is an industrial setting with a photo and colorful wall.

To fund the final phase of construction, the Trust is launching the ‘Donate a Slate’ scheme. Until September 30th, members of the public are invited to support the rebuild by signing the back of a Welsh slate tile, or submitting a message to be written by our staff. The tile will then be permanently installed on onto the roof of the workshops, becoming a part of Underfall Yard’s historic site.

To support the restoration of the Yard and take part in Donate a Slate, visit our campaign page on Zeffy here.

ENDS

For more information and to arrange interview opportunities please contact:

Kaden Gardener
market@underfallyard.co.uk

 

Notes to editors:

Pictures and video are available to download here and may be used in connection with this press release.