Arson-hit building still fenced off one year after attack
A BUILDING gutted by fire in a suspected arson attack is still fenced off almost one year on.
Lurking behind overgrown bushes and weather-beaten trees in Fishponds, the former sports pavilion is a blot on the beautiful landscape at the Oldbury Court Estate.
Anyone following the popular riverside walking route from Snuff Mills might be surprised to stumble upon the eyesore, close to the children’s play area.
It was partially destroyed by a huge fire on the night of Sunday, March 29, not even a week into the first national lockdown.
Avon Fire and Rescue crews hosed down the blaze and determined that the cause was likely deliberate.
An arson investigation was launched by Avon and Somerset Police, but no one has been arrested to date.
Much of the roof remains caved in, though the rest of the structure is still standing. Bristol City Council, which manages the park, said at the time that it was working to make the building secure and to work with emergency services.
It is not yet clear what will happen with the building - no planning applications have been put forward yet proposing demolishing or redeveloping the site.
However, the police force has confirmed that its investigation remains ongoing.
A spokesperson said: “No arrests have been made in connection with the incident, but officers are still keen to hear from anyone with information that could assist their investigation. Anyone that can help is asked to telephone 101 quoting the crime reference number 5220071874.”
No one was injured in the fire.