Locals in Yeovil are expressing serious concerns over the potential demolition of the historic Yeovil bus depot building. The brick building, located on A30 Reckleford, has stood for more than a century and holds significant historical importance. Originally part of the Nautilus Works factory, the site has been a witness to various industrial activities, including the production of engines and manufacturing of war materials during World War I and World War II.
Now, following First Bus’s announcement that the site is no longer required for their operations and their intention to sell it, the community is apprehensive about the fate of this landmark. Efforts to find a buyer for the site have been unsuccessful, culminating in the proposal to demolish the depot building as a strategy to facilitate the sale.
In response to these developments, Peter Daniel, president of Somerset Industrial Archaeological Society (SIAS), has voiced his organization’s unease regarding the potential loss of this historically significant structure. Citing the building’s association with renowned products developed by the Yeovil firm of J B Petter and its successors, Daniel emphasizes its importance in the town’s industrial history and urges the local council to consider preservation measures.
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Adding to the significance of the site, it was nominated for Local Listing after being turned down for Statutory Listing in 2014, underscoring its clear local historic interest. The building’s unique features, including its striking brick frontage and distinct carvings denoting the Nautilus mollusc, carry strong industrial and historical significance.
The looming uncertainty has prompted calls for the council to intervene and potentially designate the site for housing while safeguarding the existing frontage on Reckleford. These efforts are underscored by the desire to preserve any remaining artifacts and evidence of its earlier uses to ensure that the historical significance of the site is not lost.
A Somerset Council spokesperson confirmed ongoing discussions with First Bus South regarding the future of the Yeovil bus depot, indicating the local authority’s active involvement in shaping the fate of this cherished local landmark.