News / Bristol Beacon
Bristol Beacon receives £6m from government’s Cultural Recovery Fund
A multimillion-pound grant will have “a significant impact” as building work continues at the Bristol Beacon.
It comes as roads named after Edward Colston surrounding the venue formerly known as the Colston Hall could have their original medieval monikers returned.
Following lobbying of local councillor, Kye Dudd, from residents, Colston Street and Colston Avenue could return to their medieval names of Steep Street and St Augustine’s Back, or Bank.
is needed now More than ever
The current road names were given in the second half of the 19th century, with the Colston Hall opening in 1867.
The Colston Hall announced it was becoming the Bristol Beacon in September, and in November the Colston Tower announced that it was going to be renamed Beacon Tower.
Colston Street was temporarily renamed Floyd Street in June – photo: Martin Booth
Bristol Beacon has been awarded a £6.2m Capital Kickstart grant towards its transformation programme as part of the government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.
Bristol Beacon chief executive, Louise Mitchell, said: “We are so grateful to Arts Council England for this £6.2m award from the Cultural Recovery Fund: Capital Kickstart towards Bristol Beacon’s redevelopment.
“This is a major contribution that will have a significant impact on our capital programme.
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Read more: Three young artists working to create Bristol Beacon’s visual identity
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“The transformation of our building is a hugely ambitious and complex project that will deliver one of the best music venues in the UK when it’s completed.
“However, it is a challenging construction programme that has thrown up many surprises along the way, and the impact of Covid this year has caused further complications.
“This funding means that we can confidently continue with our original transformation plans, ensuring we are able to deliver a world-class music venue and education centre, providing a diverse artistic programme and accessible music education for children and young people across Bristol.”
Main photo: Willmott Dixon
Read more: More symbols to Colston removed
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