The firm that runs Bristol’s biggest shopping centre has formally submitted plans to redevelop the area at the gateway to the city
Image of the proposed redevelopment of brownfield land next to Cabot Circus car park(Image: Hammerson)
Bristol Live readers are fed up to hear that Hammerson, the operator of Bristol’s biggest shopping centre, has submitted plans to transform the key gateway into the city with a new 600-room student accommodation tower. The proposal, now with Bristol City Council, covers the area between Newfoundland Way at the base of the M32 and the Cabot Circus multi-storey car park.
The development includes a 28-storey purpose-built student accommodation block, a community pavilion, a pocket park, and flexible outdoor space.
The site, currently home to a vehicle rental business beside the distinctive car park with its twin spiral ramps, would be redeveloped into one of Bristol’s tallest buildings, greeting visitors as they enter the city via the M32.
A Hammerson spokesperson said: “The plans aim to put pedestrians at the heart of the redevelopment with a new pedestrian route and shared cycle lane. Extensive planting and landscaping will provide new green spaces for the community to use and enjoy.”
The company is also in discussions with a local community group to occupy the proposed pavilion. The outline application forms part of Hammerson’s wider regeneration of the Cabot Circus and Quakers Friars areas, which are set for major investment.
Jonatan Carlring, Hammerson’s development director, said: “These latest plans represent a significant enhancement to Bristol and have been developed in line with Bristol City Council’s vision for the city centre and Frome Gateway.
“As well as delivering high-quality student accommodation and a landmark building for the city, the plans include extensive green spaces, improved walking and cycling routes, and more community uses. It complements our wider Bristol estate and continues the momentum we’re building at Cabot Circus and Quakers Friars.”
The tower would join a wave of developments reshaping the approach into central Bristol, with nearby parts of St Jude’s already earmarked for transformation into high-rise housing and student accommodation.
Commenter Surf201 asks: “Where are all these students currently living? Are the builders exploiting a loophole?”
Departed replies: “The room sizes and layouts would have to be completely different for PBSA vs BTR. The planning application would have to represent the eventual use of the building. No loopholes.”
6470 is unhappy: “It’s a blot on the landscape, Bristol needs houses for families, not more flats for students!”
Myopiniononly1 agrees: “Our once fine city centre has been totally ruined by so many student rooms while paying no heed to the ever growing problem of homelessness or affordable housing.”
Richard James adds: “As all Bristolians keep asking, just how many more student flats does the City need? What about homes for our youngsters or other locals that require them?”
Matt Melhuish points out: “International students pay higher fees than UK students so universities love them and are massively increasing the number of international students since UK fees have been capped at a similar level since 2012. This has pushed up the demand for purpose built student accommodation over the classic grotty student house-share.”
Leigh Sutherland replies: “They have to go somewhere, Bristol University and UWE need them as does the country, the taller the better it leaves more space for housing/accommodation for locals.”
Jeff Wood doesn’t approve: “Isn’t there enough already? Don’t you think there will be enough when they knock the galleries down for students and offices? It’s supposed to be a shopping centre. Most of the shops have closed, now its turning into a student accommodation area rather than a town shopping centre.”
Sharon Smithen agrees: “Are we just surrendering the centre of our lovely city to students. Shall we just all move to South Gloucester or better still Bath. Students don’t pay council tax, hog cafes and don’t add much to the local economy.”
What are your thoughts on more student housing in Bristol? Do you like the new building’s design? Share your views in the comments.