Advertising business Out Of Hand bypasses public auction to buy Turbo Island
Turbo Island's unique charm is steeped in a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the middle of the 20th century. Its story is a testament to resilience, transformation, and the indomitable spirit of the Bristol community.
Established during the tumultuous years of World War II, Turbo Island's origins are deeply rooted in the city's past. In 1940, where the Shoe Warehouse once stood, emerged a parcel of land, born from the ashes of wartime destruction. The Phoenix-like rise of Turbo Island from this rubble truly marked the beginning of an iconic era.
The following decade saw the installation of an advertising hoarding on the island's southern wall, marking an interesting shift in its landscape. The wall around the billboard, however, would ultimately come to serve a purpose much grander than its original intent. Over time, it evolved into a dynamic canvas, bearing witness to the city's vibrant street art culture, while also serving as a subtly coded bulletin for local happenings.
Turbo Island's status evolved further on June 18th 1980, when Stokes Croft was declared a conservation area. Despire this in 1985, the council (then Avon County Council) sold the land to a commercial advertising company.
However, the true spirit of Turbo Island resisted this corporate takeover. In a twist of fate, the advertising billboard was destroyed by a freak mattress fire in August 2022, symbolically asserting the island's independence once more.
Photo: Copyright © Bristol Post
Following this event, Turbo Island experienced a thoughtful resurfacing in October 2022. Fresh tarmac laid the groundwork for renewed social activities, with a specially designated concrete base for the iconic bonfire, and additional bike racks.
In December 2023, new advertising billboards were installed.
At the end of August 2024, it was announced that Turbo Island would be put up for auction in October. A community action group quickly formed, raising funds and collecting pledges in support of a community bid. Stokes Croft Land Trust offered £100,000 in advance of the auction, but this offer was refused.
On the day of the auction, just hours before it was due to begin, it emerged that the land had been sold privately to an anonymous buyer for the same amount.
In July 2025, it was confirmed that the purchaser was advertising company Out Of Hand, who had previously denied buying the land, but later admitted ownership after a council document naming them was made public.
Today, with an unknown future, Turbo Island still stands as a testament to freedom, creativity, and community, preserving its heritage while continually evolving. Its story is a compelling narrative of independence and transformation, all played out on this corner of Jamaica Street and Stokes Croft.
An integral part of Bristol's history, Turbo Island continues to thrive, shaping and being shaped by the city's indomitable spirit. Its rich past beckons visitors to step into a piece of living history, adding their own stories to its ongoing narrative. Come, be a part of Turbo Island's fascinating journey, while there's still time.
A gallery of Turbo Island images is available at this external site.
The name "Turbo Island" finds its inspiration in the legendary "Turbo Cider," a delightful craft beverage born from the island’s creative spirit. Turbo Cider is a celebration of simplicity and ingenuity - a homemade cider that captures the essence of artisanal brewing without the need for a master distiller’s touch. Made from apple juices you can find at your local supermarket, this cider is as easy on the wallet as it is on the palate. The "Turbo" aspect hints at its quick and straightforward preparation - a nod to the art of creating something special in no time at all.
Crafting your own Turbo Cider is an invitation to join this time-honored tradition. All you need are a few basic ingredients: apple juice, a sprinkle of yeast, and perhaps a few special additions to elevate the flavor. To get started, all you need is a fermentation vessel and an airlock to let the magic of fermentation take place. This method naturally creates a wonderfully crisp and dry cider—perfect for those who enjoy a clean, refreshing taste.
For those with a sweeter tooth, there are plenty of creative ways to add a touch of sweetness, enhancing the cider’s natural apple notes while still preserving its handcrafted charm. Whether you’re a seasoned brewer or a first-time enthusiast, Turbo Cider offers an inviting gateway into the world of home-crafted delights—a true embodiment of Turbo Island’s free-spirited vibe, where anyone can become an artisan.