Regeneration of significant derelict Bristol site moves forward GVA starts search for developer

The Carriageworks (Grade II* listed) and Westmoreland House, which have been derelict for 25 years and includes one of Bristol’s landmark buildings could be transformed within a few years. A multi-discipline team from the Bristol office of independent property adviser GVA has been appointed by Bristol City Council to work with them, and with the local community group, Carriageworks Action Group, to bring forward the delivery of a viable, mixed use scheme for the 0.5 ha site.

GVA has announced it is now marketing the site to potential development partners.

Gordon Isgrove, development director for GVA in Bristol says, “Our task is to assist both the Council and the local community to bring this site back to life, by appointing a suitable partner who can generate value through a vibrant mixed use development that meets with the aspirations of the local community. We are now embarking on a process to select a development partner for this exciting and vibrant area of Bristol.”

Subject to cabinet approval and finding the right development partner to invest in Carriageworks and Westmoreland House, Bristol City Council will be able to enact Compulsory Purchase Powers, if necessary, in order to deliver regeneration to this prominent site. Ongoing dialogue with the site’s owner continues with the hope of finding a mutually satisfactory outcome.

The Carriageworks was designed by the Victorian architect, EW Godwin. Neighbouring Westmoreland House is a derelict, six storey 1960s concrete frame office building, and at the rear is 4 Ashley Road, a derelict but Grade II listed house.
In 1989 planning permission was granted for a development of 63 flats, offices and underground parking but was never taken forward.  An application has been submitted for 183 flats, but this has faced opposition on the grounds of incompatibility with the interests of the community.