The Southville Centre is a social enterprise run by Southville Community Development Association (SCDA). The Centre runs as a community centre and a conference centre, offering a full programme of activities and classes, conferencing, childcare and after school clubs.

The Centre also runs community projects related to the environment, arts and older people. Project such as these, run on the energy of the local community. During 2006 the Centre produced a 60 page book in full colour, on the history, industry and heritage of the Avon Cut. The book highlighted the important contributions that Brunel made to the Avon Cut and its role facilitating larger steam ships to be built in the Floating Harbour.

Many local artists were keen to be involved in the project, and contributed photographs, illustrations and valuable knowledge of the area.

In evaluation, Katie White, Coordinator and Compiler, noted that the project had been “…a steep learning curve…working in publishing and computer design”. Those involved in the project dealt with their fair share of ups and downs, however the finished result was met with very positive response, and 522 copies of the book have been sold to date.

The book includes chapters on Bristol before and after the cut, on William Jessop (Devon born engineer who submitted designs for the Floating Harbour and Avon New Cut), Brunel, bridges, churches, geology and MUD!

You can download a PDF of sample pages from the book here and see some feedback letters below.






Links

www.southvillecentre.org.uk