Councillors will debate the petition next weekBristol Blue Glass blower David Barry(Image: PAUL GILLIS / Reach PLC)

Almost 7,000 petitioners are urging Bristol City Council to help a business making blue glass to find a new home. Bristol Blue Glass is based on the A4 Bath Road is Brislington but its lease runs out in February and finding an alternative location has proved difficult so far.

The “iconic” blue glass is “famous all over the world” and has been made in Bristol since the 18th century. The company’s bosses said “Bristol would not be the same” without the firm, and compared their glass to Brunel, Banksy, the SS Great Britain and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

The company was founded in 1988, bringing back the traditional way of making blue glass. Last year the firm vacated their shop on the High Street in the city centre. The petition will be debated by councillors during a full council meeting on Tuesday, December 9. The firm is hoping to find an industrial building close to the city centre.

In the petition, Suzanne Adlington, managing director, said: “Bristol Blue Glass was founded by my husband, James Adlington, in 1988 with the vision of revitalising glassmaking in Bristol. Over the years, we have built an international reputation for our distinctive glassware, all while navigating economic downturns, pandemics, and various challenges.

“Our craft is unique, and we are passionate about preserving a traditional trade that is rapidly disappearing in today’s fast-paced, media-driven world. We are seeking a permanent home, ideally in central Bristol, to ensure our continued existence.

“Being highly visible in the community is vital for our survival and for passing this treasured craft on to future generations. Your support can help preserve this important part of Bristol’s cultural and artistic heritage.”

The petition is calling on council leaders to redouble their efforts to help save the business. It was organised by local Liberal Democrat Councillor Andrew Varney. Blue glass is why the city’s taxis are painted blue, and was one of things Bristol was known for in the 18th and 19th centuries. As well as high rent, another problem facing the company is rising energy bills.

David Barry, general manager, added: “Our product is amazing, our brand is amazing and so are those involved. When you think of Bristol, you think of the SS Great Britain, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, our historic dockyards and of course Bristol Blue Glass.

“We have visitors coming from all over the world to see our team of glass blowers making our perfectly imperfect product completely by hand, just like how it would have been done 2000 years ago. Bristol will not be the same without this historic company at the beating heart of this city.”