In February, the Diocese announced that the first stage of a public consultation exploring the future of All Saints Church on Corn Street, believed to be the burial place of Edward Colston, had been completed. In that update, we shared that the perspectives and early-stage proposals gathered so far would be explored further in a second, broader stage. We are now able to share full details of this next phase, including how you can take part.
What is happening in stage two?
The second and final stage will bring together a range of groups through a series of meetings, including three open focus groups that are available for any member of the public to sign up for.
What will the focus groups involve?
Each session will include facilitated discussion exploring the perspectives and proposals that emerged from Stage One. All participants will be able to share their views in a safe, open and respectful environment.
If building works permit and the site is safe to access, participants will also be offered the opportunity to join a guided visit to the All Saints building on a separate date. If an in‑person visit is not possible, a virtual tour will be offered instead.
The Diocese is committed to hearing the full range of perspectives, and all constructive contributions are welcomed.
The Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Acting Bishop of Bristol and Bishop of Swindon said:
“The launch of this second stage of the consultation marks a widening of the voices contributing to the exploration and discernment of the future of All Saints. I am thankful for those who will take part, and I pray that these conversations will bring insight, understanding and healing.”
What happens after Stage Two?
Following the completion of this second, and final, stage of the consultation, the findings will be used to inform a decision regarding the future use of the building. Any final decision may also depend on securing appropriate external funding.
How to take part
The focus groups will take place at the following times and locations:
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St. Agnes Church, St Pauls, BS2 9LL, Weds 13th May, 5.30 - 7.30pm
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St. Stephen’s Church, Old City, BS1 1EQ, Tues 19th May, 6.00 – 7.30pm
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Withywood Church, BS13 8QA, Tues 26th May, 6.00 – 7.30pm
Click here to sign up for the 13 May focus group at St Agnes
Click here to sign up for the 19 May focus group at St Stephen's
Click here to sign up for the 26 May focus group at Withywood Church
Building works
The building has been closed to the public since 1984 but was used as offices until 2015. Due to its location, legally required works to fix the building's roof are set to begin in the coming weeks to protect public safety. The works, which will last for around six months, are completely separate from the consultation and will not influence the final decisions about the building’s future.