Construction is well underway at Chessel Nursery in Bedminster – which will replace a former Boys Brigade hall.

The work is being carried out by fast-growing Bristol builders Helm Construction on behalf of the Southville Nursery Trust - and is being funded through a unique community investment bond.

Launched in January, the bond sold out within five days with local people raising more than 50 per cent of the £280k bond total.

Kim Richings from Helm Construction said the successful funding was typical of the community spirit in the heart of Bedminster.

“We have completed a few schemes in the heart of Bedminster and it’s always striking quite how far the local people get behind the regeneration of their district.

“The new nursery is being constructed strictly to local demands and will provide much needed childcare facilities for the local residents.”

It is due to complete in summer 2017 – ready for an Autumn/winter opening – and not before time. Figures show the number of under five-year-olds in Bristol has grown by 36 per cent in the last decade alone.

“We have experience of the sector having completed a major re-design project at Filton Avenue Nursery. It’s great to be working on a development which will be of so much use to so many people.”

Kim said the relatively tight urban site had once again caused difficulties for the crew on site.

“We have come across awkward schemes before where it’s difficult to get to and move around the site, but we have tried to keep disturbance to the local residents to the absolute minimum.”