Church bombed in ‘Bristol Blitz’ to be restored after 80 years

A CHURCH destroyed in the “Bristol blitz” is to be revived after decades lying derelict.

Temple Church in Bristol city centre was bombed in the Second World War and is among the top 20 worst condition buildings belonging to English Heritage.

Built in the 15th century, with a spectacular leaning spire, it has stood empty since 1941.

It was left in its derelict state as a memorial to the Blitz but soon will be filled with the sound of hymns.

The church has a rich history and was originally the site of a 12th century temple built by the Knights Templar.

Enough money has now been raised for urgent work to take place this year

‘We want it to be part of community life again – it is amazing to see what passion there is for this building’

to restore the church to its former glory and allow worship once again.

The restoration is being planned by Steve Tompkins, the architect who led the transformation of Bristol Old Vic and Battersea Arts Centre in London.

He is leading the renovations in conjunction with Bristol’s Architecture Centre, which is working with Bristol City Council, English Heritage and Grant Associates, the architecture team behind Singapore’s Gardens By The Bay.

Mr Tompkins said Temple Church was a “jewel of a project”.

Rob Woodside, estates director at English Heritage, said: “After more than 75 years, we want Temple Church to be part of community life in Bristol once again, and it has been amazing to see what a passion there is for this wonderful building.”

The church has only been used sporadically in recent years, most recently as a site to gather in front of for the celebration of Bristol being voted Europe’s green capital in 2015. The graveyard is now a public garden.