An eyesore pub gutted by fire in 2019 can be bought forcibly to unlock a regeneration of Lockleaze, Bristol City Council cabinet has agreed for the second time. Councillors approved a compulsory purchase order (CPO) back in September 2019 for the Gainsborough and a nearby semi-detached house at 16 Branwhite Close, but so much time has passed since then that lawyers advised them to reconfirm the decision.
The derelict pub shut in 2010 and was severely damaged in a blaze three years ago. Mayor Marvin Rees told the latest cabinet meeting on Tuesday, May 10, that planning permission had been obtained for 48 homes, all classed as affordable, at the Gainsborough Square site.
This involves the local authority acquiring and bulldozing both buildings, but neither sale has been completed despite lengthy negotiations and a CPO will be issued if agreement cannot be reached with the owners. Mr Rees said: “The scheme presents an opportunity to regenerate this section of Gainsborough Square, which is the commercial centre of Lockleaze.
