Underfall Yard and the Docks Workshops are thought to be the only surviving Victorian docks maintenance facility in the world and are still in use today. The Yard and its hidden infrastructure of sluices, swing bridges, lock gates and pumps is a nationally important engineering heritage site.

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Following a devastating fire in 2023, Underfall Yard Trust has worked tirelessly to salvage the heritage site. Not only to make it more accessible to the public, but also to rebuild to modern standards so that workshops for vital maritime businesses can flourish.

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John James Bristol Foundation has given £50,000 towards the rebuilding of The Big Shed which will offer boatbuilding, public engagement opportunities, and education programmes.  Local schools and youth groups will be able to participate in developing practical marine skill, as well as real-world science, technology and engineering opportunities.

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The build is due to be completed in Autumn 2026.

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