Science Fiction Retailer Reopens One Year After Fire Incident

A well-known science fiction store has resumed operations, precisely one year after a fire forced its closure. Forbidden Planet, situated at Clifton Heights in Bristol, ceased trading in December 2023 following a blaze in the building located above its premises. The shop’s entire inventory was destroyed by the water and chemicals deployed to extinguish the fire. Andrew Sumner, chief operating officer of Forbidden Planet, remarked: “The response we’ve had about the return of the store has been deeply touching and we massively appreciate it.” Forbidden Planet, which recommenced business on December 7, was required to invest in a completely new range of stock after its previous merchandise suffered damage. To commemorate the reopening, staff organized a special event that featured various cosplayers, goodie bags, and author signing sessions. Mr. Sumner noted that the day’s first customer, named Matthew, arrived at 08:00 GMT, having waited outside for several hours in the stormy weather. “The store doesn’t just have customers – it has a fanbase of its own – and they are over the moon that it is returning,” Mr. Sumner explained. He added: “It’s not just a store. It’s emblematic of a way of life and a way of consuming your personal entertainment and accessing the world that you love.” The establishment has been a significant presence in the city for 31 years, initially opening on Penn Street in Broadmead in 1993, before relocating to Clifton Heights in 2005. “We love Bristol because it’s such a forward-thinking city, so full of creativity,” Mr. Sumner continued. Mr. Sumner stated that the fire was “very serious” and caused damage to multiple floors of the building situated above the shop. However, he clarified that the structural integrity of the store itself remained completely sound, with most of the damage resulting from smoke, water, and chemicals used during the firefighting efforts. The store is scheduled to host a series of events throughout December, including a book signing on December 22 for the making of the book *Wallace and Gromit Vengeance Most Fowl*. For updates, follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.