Re-development of the Old Tavern, Blackberry Hill – Bristol
Skeletal Consulting Engineers are pleased to be providing civil and structural engineering design for the redevelopment of the Old Tavern on Blackberry Hill, Bristol — a prominent Grade II-listed building which is currently being converted alongside new-build elements to deliver student accommodation in Fishponds.
The project, for Christian Grant Properties and designed by Angus Meek Architects, will help secure the long-term future of this well-known local landmark. Dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, the Old Tavern has been part of the Blackberry Hill streetscape for over 200 years. After closing its doors several years ago, the building fell vacant, and proposals were brought forward to sensitively convert it and introduce carefully considered extensions to the rear of the site — giving it a new lease of life.
The scheme strikes a balance between retaining historic fabric and introducing contemporary new-build accommodation. Working with a listed structure inevitably brings challenges. Our role has included a detailed assessment of the existing building and the design of strengthening works to ensure the structure can safely accommodate its new use. This has required careful intervention within the historic masonry fabric, co-ordinating structural upgrades with architectural and heritage requirements to preserve the building’s character while enhancing its performance.
Alongside the refurbishment works, the project includes substantial new-build accommodation. Skeletal has undertaken the structural design of these elements, incorporating load-bearing masonry construction, precast floor units, and a combination of timber and steel beams to suit the architectural layout and programme requirements. Foundations respond to site constraints and ground conditions, utilising a combination of piled ground beams and mass concrete strip footings, together with retaining walls where required.
In addition to the structural works, the project includes a comprehensive drainage and SuDS strategy, site level co-ordination, and external surfacing designed to ensure the development sits comfortably within its context. Diverting an existing public sewer has been a critical component of the scheme, enabling the new building footprint while satisfying Wessex Water requirements.
We are pleased to be supporting Christian Grant Properties and Angus Meek Architects in delivering this redevelopment, helping to bring a historic building back into active use while providing new accommodation for the area.
