The main theme for the Coventry Society in the coming year is the Spon Street Conservation Area. Here is some background for those who may be unfamiliar with its history.
The Spon Street Townscape Scheme began in the mid-1960s, when Coventry was undergoing major reconstruction following the widespread destruction caused by the Blitz during the Second World War. Large areas of the city centre were cleared to make way for new development. Scattered across these sites were a number of medieval buildings that had survived the bombing. Many were in poor condition and were considered unhygienic, and so were marked for demolition.
However, this approach caused concern. Many people believed that historic timber-framed buildings could be carefully restored and adapted for modern use. Even the city’s architect, Donald Gibson, suggested the idea of creating a “graveyard” of historic buildings by dismantling and re-erecting them along Spon Street.
Because medieval timber-framed buildings were constructed using jointed sections secured with wooden pegs, they could be taken apart and rebuilt elsewhere once the pegs were removed — rather like pieces of Lego. The plan was to relocate many buildings that stood in the way of redevelopment and reassemble them in Spon Street, which already contained several historic structures.
The aim was to create a distinctive heritage destination similar to The Shambles in York or The Lanes in Brighton — both extremely popular with visitors. These areas are characterised by narrow, traffic-free streets, independent shops, and a lively atmosphere. Cobbled pathways and closely packed buildings give a strong sense of stepping back in time — scenes reminiscent of the settings from stories such as Oliver Twist, Sherlock Holmes adventures, or even the Harry Potter films. They feel bustling, characterful, and full of life, both day and night.
Today, however, the reality in Spon Street and the wider conservation area is very different. Several buildings are closed, parts of the street appear run-down, and parked cars dominate the scene. The businesses that remain — including pubs, shops, and the Watch Museum — are doing their best to survive.
The area was designated as a Conservation Area in 1969 and extended in 2004. However, there is no updated management plan.
The Coventry Society would like its members to begin thinking about what could help revitalise this important area. In forthcoming articles, we will explore more of the street’s history, including proposals that once considered moving Whitefriars Gatehouse from Much Park Street to the site of the former Spon Street Gate as a dramatic entrance feature. This raises an interesting question: should the Spon Street Gate be rebuilt?
There are many possibilities worth discussing. Could pedestrianisation — with limited delivery access in the early morning — improve the environment? Would period street lighting and architectural illumination help highlight the historic buildings at night? Might outdoor seating areas, farmers’ markets, performances, and cultural events encourage more visitors?
We are also interested in whether the planned conversion of the former IKEA building into a Cultural Centre could have a positive impact on the area. We hope to speak with the developers to explore how both projects might support one another. The Spon Street Conservation Area lies just behind this building, making collaboration particularly relevant.
We are therefore inviting an open dialogue and welcome ideas and comments about Spon Street, Hill Street, Lower Holyhead Road, the former Bablake School, Bond’s Hospital, St John the Baptist Church, and all parts of the conservation area. While past decisions are part of history, our focus is firmly on the future.
Please send your thoughts, suggestions, sketches — anything that might help bring new life to this historic part of the city — to:
Email: info@coventrysociety.org.uk Or comment on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/CoventrySociety