Heritage experts are sounding the alarm over the worsening condition of a historic landmark in the heart of Bath. The Bath Preservation Society has formally applied to the World Monuments Fund (WMF) to place the old King Edward’s School building on Broad Street onto its prestigious watch list, which highlights endangered cultural sites worldwide.
Vacant since 1990, the Georgian-era building has become a local symbol of neglect, often plastered with signs condemning its owners for allowing it to fall into disrepair. Although superficial repairs have been attempted, the grade II* listed building remains on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register—a stark warning for a city celebrated for its carefully preserved Georgian architecture and urban planning.
The WMF identifies and advocates for the protection of irreplaceable cultural heritage across 112 countries. Every two years, nominations are accepted for the next watch list, with selections to be announced in 2027.
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Constructed in 1752 by Bath architect Thomas Jelly, King Edward’s School was purchased by Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery after the school relocated in 1990, with plans to convert it into a pub. However, more than three decades later, the building remains vacant and increasingly dilapidated.
The Bath Preservation Trust commented, “King Edward’s School reflects a global issue where historic structures are neglected and left vulnerable to decay. This building has drawn significant local and national concern and could become a flagship project for community-driven restoration.”
Numerous community members have expressed frustration with the building’s ongoing neglect and have offered support to aid its restoration. Despite repeated correspondence with the owner, Samuel Smith’s Brewery, there has been no response.
Since early 2024, Scott Harrison—a Bath-based circus performer and former student of the school known professionally as Stanley Sprocket—has installed a series of provocative signs on the building to raise awareness. His latest sign directly names Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery owner, Humphrey Smith, with the message: “Shame on you.”
Harrison has publicly requested that Smith sell the property to him so he can establish a circus school on the site. “As an alumnus, I believe I have the right to ask: if you’re not going to do anything with this building, please hand me the key,” he said.
Additionally, Bath and North East Somerset Council has taken steps to compel the brewery to address the building’s decline, underscoring the urgent need to preserve this important piece of Bath’s heritage.