The bank comes crashing down

Image: © Neil Owen Taken: 24 May 2026

The old Bank of England buildings on Broad Street were built on the much-missed city centre location that used to have the Dutch House - damaged during the Blitz. Many complained about the appearance of the concrete structures, which had a distinctly post-war look. The bank also served as a secure bullion centre in reaction to the Great Train Robbery, and had a massively secure vaults. However, time and tide waits for no man and the bank was left derelict for many years. Now its time is drawing to a close as the bulldozers and jackhammers set about it. It is planned to have new multi-storey offices, retail outlets and bars to replace it. In some contrast is the old tower of St Mary-le-Port church in the background: that was also badly affected by the bombing but its shell has remained. Now it has finally been given resources to rebuild and secure it. It is interesting that the church was given listed status, whereas the modern bank was not and is to be disposed of.

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