ACTRESS Miriam Margolyes visited Jacobs Wells Baths to show her support for the restoration project.
She spoke to the team from Trinity Bristol and PH3 Design who are leading the efforts to turn it into a community and cultural hub.
The revamp includes creating a street-facing main entrance and modernisation of the previously unused ground floor Pump Room, transforming it into a cafe-bar and studio.
Miriam Margolyes said: “I’m thrilled to have a chance to visit Jacobs Wells and encourage the council and my fellow-supporters with their exciting plans to return this listed building to the service of the local community. This will help so many to have a go – opportunity knocks at last.”
Trinity’s chair of trustees Chris Luffingham said: “We’re so grateful for Miriam taking the time to visit the project and this comes as we complete key milestones including securing planning and lease completion. This means Trinity can now begin crucial Phase 1 repairs including works to the main hall roof, funded by £1.6 million secured from the DLUHC Community Ownership Fund and match funders.
He thanked Miriam, Bristol City Council, local stakeholders and the Hotwells & Harbourside Community Association, who led campaign efforts to save the building from disposal.
“We are excited to now be able to move forward with our efforts to bring the building back into use as a multidisciplinary venue for arts, heritage, youth, community and educational use,” he added.