VANDALISM IN BRISTOL
[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] Srn,—The Spectator once spoke of Bristol as a "sick city." It is true ; Bristol is indeed sick, smitten with the disease of Vandalism. Private munificence has just endowed it with some of the finest new University buildings in the King- dom; but against this gain the city proposes to mutilate one of the few beautiful haunts that remain to it—its fine cathedral- close known locally as College Green. For the supposed advantage of motorists, it is suggested that the road on the northern side should be widened, though already wide enough for three cars to drive abreast. To accomplish this widening the lovely avenue of trees on this side must be reduced to a single row, and the promenade under their shade be seriously restricted. It is this Green that has allowed Bristol to wel- come comparison even with Exeter, Wells, Salisbury ; this old burying-place of the Austin Canons is a breathing-spot in the heart of the city, a rest and a refreshment, a mirror of the changing seasons, a playground for little children who know no other. What is to be taken can never be restored. The gain is that a few motorists and shoppers may be satisfied, and Bristol put forward a new claim to be considered a strong- hold of the Philistines.—I am, Sir, &c.,
. Manure L. SALMON.
Previous page
