£100,000 donation boosts Underfall Yard’s rebuilding efforts after arson attack

The Nisbet Trust has pledged £100,000 towards ongoing restoration work at Underfall Yard as it recovers from an arson attack.

Underfall Yard suffered significant structural damage in the fire two years ago.

The Nisbet Trust, an independent trust committed to support charitable causes in Bristol, has made the donation to help restore this site, ensuring it continues to serve as a vital hub for boat builders, maritime businesses and the local community.

Underfall Yard, a Scheduled Monument with Grade II and II* listed buildings, has been a key part of Bristol’s industrial harbourside since the 19th century. It remains a working boatyard, and now also serves as an educational and heritage site for visitors, schools, and maritime enthusiasts.

Anne Nisbet, chair of trustees of The Nisbet Trust, said: “Underfall Yard has played a central role in Bristol’s harbourside for centuries. The yard’s education programme and commitment to providing free-to-access urban space helps to connect young people with the city’s industrial history.

“Since the fire, we have been inspired by the resilience of the team working to restore the yard. By pledging this funding, we hope to accelerate the restoration efforts and make sure Underfall Yard continues to thrive for generations to come.”

The donation from The Nisbet Trust will contribute to essential restoration work and allow it to open its doors fully to local businesses. With repairs to the fire-damaged Shipwrights building set to be completed by early spring, momentum is building behind Underfall Yard’s ambitious recovery and reinstatement project.

The fundraising drive is in full swing and, in a major boost to the project, trustees have confirmed that £200,000 from reserve funds will be dedicated to the yard’s revival.

Sarah Murray, director of the Underfall Yard Trust, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Nisbet Trust for their support. This funding will play a significant role in helping us rebuild and safeguard Underfall Yard’s future.

“The Nisbet Trust’s pledge, the confirmed reserved funding, and the generous donations we’ve already received from members of the public mean we’ve now reached almost 50% of our total fundraising target.”

The restoration efforts at the yard are ongoing, and further support is being sought from businesses and other organisations.