Neighbours say ‘deafening sounds and smells’ are ruining their communal garden
14:02, 14 Oct 2025Updated 14:02, 14 Oct 2025
The new Gail’s bakery on College Green on its opening day (Thursday, September 4, 2025) (Image: Paul Gillis/Reach Plc)
A new Gail’s in Bristol is causing problems for neighbours because of the ‘deafening sounds and smells’ coming from its air conditioning units. After long delays, Gail’s College Green opened to the public on September 4.
But just over a month into its trading life, the new branch of the popular upmarket bakery chain is engaged in a dispute with residents of the adjacent 10 Unity Street block of flats, who say the units are ruining their enjoyment of their building’s communal garden.
The continued installation of the units is now subject to a planning application with Bristol City Council.
“They all back on to our garden, which is our sanctuary, that is now completely spoiled by the deafening sounds and smells coming from these machines,” one resident wrote in objecting to the units’ current placement.
“The air conditioners are also immediately below an open-grated metal fire escape, so if these air conditioners caught fire, it would make it impossible for people above to escape.”
Another resident said they were worried about the possible implications of the new units when it came to selling their property.
“This is going to have a detrimental impact on the quality of life for residents, including myself, from a noise and heat perspective,” the resident said.
“In addition to a reduction in quality of life, this is likely to have a negative impact on the value (of) the properties in 10 Unity Street as one of the unique selling points is the fact that the communal area is a quiet and peaceful space in the middle of a large and busy city.”
There have been six objections to the planning application so far.
A spokesperson for Gail’s said: “Gail’s sought and received permission from the landlord prior to starting works at our Bristol College Green bakery. However, following a noise complaint, we are working with the council and hope the issue will be resolved soon.”
Gail’s has become a high street juggernaut since opening its first branch in Hampstead, London, in 2005.
There are now over 170 stores in towns and cities across the UK. Along with College Green, there are two other Gail’s in Bristol, one on Whiteladies Road and the other in Clifton Village.
Despite its popularity, the chain has attracted controversy due to its supposed negative impact on independent local businesses. Consultation on the planning application for the Gail’s College Green units is due to end on November 10.