Stokes Croft, Bristol

Description:

Stokes Croft is a suburb on the immediate border of Bristol City Centre heading North along Cheltenham Road.

The area has been run down for many years, however recently developments such as 5201 - a large apartment complex at St James Barton - are helping to regenerate the area. Saying this, there are still a number of large derelict buildings which are of major concern to local residents and have been identified as potential development projects for the area.

Stokes Croft is home to a number of bars as well as some of Bristol's most well known nightclubs such as Blue Mountain Club and Lakota. Lots of fast food restaurants are also based around these. It is also home to some of the seedier elements of Bristol with a number of massage parlours operating 24 hours.

Local residents are making huge efforts to rejuvenate the area, particularly with regard to public art. Local action group The People's Republic of Stokes Croft are an instrumental part of promoting these efforts. They say:

'Stokes Croft is the most interesting and culturally diverse area in Bristol, boasting more honesty, beauty and truth than any other part of the City. It is precisely because Stokes Croft has been neglected, that people of all backgrounds and circumstance have learned to co-exist in an enclave of tolerance that few from outside this magical area can begin to understand.

The mission is to help Stokes Croft to recognise its special qualities by improving the streetscape through direct action, by creating a sense of identity, a sense of belonging and of self-worth. PRSC is determined to safeguard the unique character of the area.

Because of the economically challenged nature of Stokes Croft, there are many areas where there are gaps in the normal commercial landscape. This can be seen as a disadvantage, a gap- toothed smile. PRSC sees only opportunity, the opportunity to flavour forever the visual nature of our quarter. More stimulating. Tidier. Safer. Better.'

Featured Businesses in Stokes Croft

Shops

Fred Baker Cycles