Dugout Update January 2025

The purpose of this statement is to provide an update on Wellspring Settlement’s position in relation to the building known as The Dugout, at 65 Barton Hill Road. 

 Last year, we notified the community of our intention to sell The Dugout as a result of financial challenges for the charity sector. The sale of The Dugout offers a unique opportunity for Wellspring Settlement to secure the future of the organisation, and the other community buildings we operate, whilst disposing of a building which has become a financial burden. The building has now been on the market for sale by informal tender for around two months.  The deadline for tenders to be received will be the 31st January 2025. 

 On 3 January 2025, Bristol City Council confirmed that there has been a successful nomination to list the Dug Out as an asset of community value. We did not oppose the nomination. We have now formally notified the council, as is required by the asset of community value process, of our intention to sell the property. This means that local community groups have six weeks to put a bid together and we cannot sell the property during this period. If an expression of interest is submitted within the six week period, there is then a 6 month period in which we can only sell the building to a community group. We are open to receiving an expression of interest from a community group, and if a community group does not come forward to purchase the building we will proceed to sell the property. 

 The current tenants of the Dugout, Barton Hill Amateur Boxing Club, will be looking for a new home as a result of the sale, and we are working with them to find one. The Boxing Club provides opportunities for young people and adults to learn boxing skills, keep fit and be part of a community. They are keen to find somewhere in Barton Hill and need a space where the boxing ring can be set up permanently. Can you help us find them a new home? 

We would like to ask any local businesses and landowners who might know of an appropriate home, or could support the boxing club with their predicament to get in touch by email