Speedwell, Bristol facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Speedwell |
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 Speedwell
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| Population | 2,342 |
| OS grid reference | ST635745 |
| Unitary authority | |
| Ceremonial county | |
| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | BRISTOL |
| Postcode district | BS5, BS15 |
| Dialling code | 0117 |
| Police | Avon and Somerset |
| Fire | Avon |
| Ambulance | Great Western |
| EU Parliament | South West England |
| UK Parliament |
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Speedwell is a lively area located in the eastern part of Bristol, England. It's part of the Hillfields ward. This area has a mix of places where people live and where businesses and factories operate.
In 2014, it was estimated that about 2,342 people lived in Speedwell.
Education in Speedwell
The main school in Speedwell is Bristol Brunel Academy. This school has changed its name a few times. It was once known as Speedwell Technology College and before that, Speedwell Secondary School.
Bristol Brunel Academy was special because it was Bristol's very first specialist school. It became a technology college in 1997. This meant it focused more on subjects like science and technology. In 2007, the school moved into brand-new buildings that were built just for them. The old school buildings were then taken down.
History of Speedwell
Speedwell has a rich history, especially linked to its past industries and how the area developed over time.
Early Mining Days
In the 1800s, the Speedwell area was home to many small coal mines. These mines dug for coal deep underground. Sometimes, these old mine tunnels could cause problems later on. For example, in the 1970s, engineers had to make sure the ground was stable near the Speedwell secondary school because of these old mine workings.
A special railway line, used only for carrying goods, connected these coal mines to the Peckett and Sons locomotive works. This company, also known as the Atlas Locomotive Works, built locomotives (train engines). The railway then linked up with the Midland railway at Kingswood junction, helping transport coal and engines to other places.
Buildings and Changes
In the early 1970s, soon after Avon county council was formed, a big fire sadly burned down about half of Speedwell secondary school. The school was later partly rebuilt so students could continue their learning.
After World War II, there was a big shortage of homes. To help with this, many 'temporary' prefab houses were built quickly. Some of these prefab homes were located on the west side of Speedwell and remained there until the early 2000s.
