Historic Underfall Yard Targets February 2025 Partial Reopening Following Arson Damage

A historic shipbuilding facility, Underfall Yard, is set to partially reopen in February after suffering significant damage from an arson attack. The fire, which affected three buildings and six boats at Underfall Yard in Bristol, resulted in millions of pounds’ worth of damage. James Durie, chair of the yard’s trustees, stated, “We want to build something people are proud of.” While the visitor centre, walkway, and cafe resumed operations earlier this year, the owners anticipate re-launching the shipwright’s main building by February. Robert Boyd-Stevenson, identified as a serial arsonist responsible for initiating the fire, received a life sentence last year. He had been employed at the boatyard as a maintenance coordinator for three days when he ignited the blaze in 2023. The yard’s management is endeavoring to salvage and reuse as many original materials from the structure as feasible. Steve Sandle, the foreman overseeing the renovations, commented: “It’s a considerable job and a messy job because of the fire.” He noted that everything was smoke damaged and brittle. Sandle added: “We’re stripping out quite a lot but there’s a few months still to go yet before it’s finished, but we’re on track for completion next year.” Sarah Murray, Director of the Underfall Yard Trust, expressed that she “couldn’t wait to see the yard restored.” She described the incident, stating, “It was horrendous when the fire happened, and thankfully we’re moving on.” Murray also mentioned the financial support received, noting, “Donations rolled in from individuals, businesses and community groups, and we’re going through our insurance company too.” She concluded by saying, “The vital roof repairs are an important step on us for the road to recovery.” Mr Durie commented that the city had supported the rebuilding efforts. He stated, “The rebuild of the main shed will take a few years.” Durie further explained, “There’s a lot of costs involved before we even start building, and we will need to raise more money.” He concluded by saying, “We don’t want to hide the fact we had a fire, but we want to build a place that the whole of Bristol can enjoy, and the response has been humbling.”