News / Pubs
Pub launches fundraiser after council drilling destroys toilets
A pub in Clifton claims they have seen a drastic fall in business after council contractors accidentally drilled into their underground toilets, forcing patrons to use portable loos.
The two outside toilets were were initially placed outside the Quadrant at the end of Princess Victoria Street but when the pedestrianisation scheme was completed on that side of the road, they were moved to the corner of Regent Street and Boyce’s Avenue – meaning customers now have to take a short detour over a zebra crossing to do their business.
After the “devastating and unexpected blow”, the pub landlord is now raising funds to keep business afloat until promised compensation from Bristol City Council arrives.
The pub has been in business since as early as 1866 – photo: Martin Booth
“The council has admitted liability and promised to repair the damage, but they’ve provided no timeline and have no emergency support in place for businesses affected by their own negligence,” Quadrant landlord Tom Rowell said.
“In the meantime, we’ve experienced a 30–50 per cent drop in weekly sales, far more than any small business can withstand.
“With narrow margins and little financial cushion, even a 10% loss can be critical.”
Rowell emphasises that the pub can not continue operating in the same way for more than a couple of weeks, as “bills, wages, and taxes still need to be paid—and the company credit card isn’t bottomless”.
The Quadrant hope to raise £20,000 “to keep the pub going during this crisis” – photo: Martin Booth
Once the business receives compensation from the council or the contractors, they promise to donate all funds raised to the Burnt Chef Project, an initiative that supports mental health within the hospitality industry.
When previously contacted about the mishap, chair of Bristol City Council’s transport & connectivity committee Ed Plowden apologised for the inconvenience and assured a quick solution.
He also added: “We are actively working with the business owner to rectify the situation as quickly as possible and with minimal disruption.”
Additionally, the council are also paying for the temporary portable toilets outside what used to be WH Smith and is now unused land awaiting development.
Main photo: Martin Booth
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