Plans in pipeline for major regeneration project at derelict site in St Werburghs, Bristol

Plans are being drawn up to transform a former industrial site in St Werburghs, Bristol, into a new mixed-use development with over 100 homes.

Leading property consultancy JLL, working in conjunction with DJ Foley, is preparing an outline planning application on behalf of landowner Folland Ltd to secure the regeneration of the site.

The proposed project would breathe new life into the 3.5 acre site, which comprises a mixture of 19th and 20th century buildings. The site has been derelict since the closure of former occupier Brooks Laundry in 2007, when the firm went into administration.

The initial proposed scheme is for around 114 houses and flats, with further space allocated for uses including office space, studios, workshops or the health, medical or education sectors. The proposal also includes public realm enhancements and improved pedestrian and cycle access to the site.

The first public consultation event will be held at St Werburghs Community Centre, Horley Road, St Werburghs, Bristol, on April 1 between 2.30pm and 7.30pm.  The event will be open to all members of the community.

Kevin Hunt, a director in the Bristol-based planning and development team of JLL, said: “We’re very excited to have the opportunity to engage with the local community in respect of the future of this important site.”

“We have spent time investigating a number of technical issues which have constrained the development of the land until this point. However, we’re now hopeful that discussions with Bristol City Council and Environment Agency will allow us to overcome those technical matters, which will facilitate the sustainable regeneration of this site for the benefit of the whole community.”

Lee Douglas, director at DJ Foley, said “The redevelopment of this site is important for the future of not just St Werburghs, but the city as a whole as it will make a contribution to the delivery of housing and commercial uses, whilst also securing the regeneration of the site for the benefit of current and future residents.”

The preliminary scheme has taken into consideration the St Werburghs Neighbourhood Association ‘Community Plan’, which was drawn up regarding the future of the site. The development scheme which will be presented at the public consultation seeks to deliver a commercially viable development that will support the regeneration of the local area.

The proposed development aligns with local policy which dictates that the land is used for a residential-led mixed-use development.

None of the buildings at the site are listed and the site is not within a conservation area.