Work steams ahead on transformation of historic brewery buildings at Finzels Reach

Work is now well under way on creating an exciting new part of Finzels Reach that is set to become a new social hotspot for Bristol as well as the home of inspiring workspace.

Building contractor Lancer Scott has been appointed to deliver the works on the former brewery buildings which include the iconic Compressor Building overlooking the waterfront and Castle Park and the Fermentation Buildings along Hawkins Lane, which runs right through the heart of Finzels Reach.

The buildings, which are brimming with character and charm, are part of the rich brewing history at Finzels Reach, which has been home to several famous Bristol breweries over the years, most recently Courage brewery.

Gavin Bridge, director of Cubex, says: “It’s so exciting to see the works in full swing now, marking the start of the transformation of these stunning, historic buildings to breathe new life into them. We’ve had plenty of interest already in both the leisure and office space that we are creating and we expect to be making some exciting new announcements on this front very soon.

“The leisure space is set to be home to an eclectic mix of independent businesses, which could range from a florist to a clothing brand, a restaurant to a gym, and a hairdresser’s to a café, whilst we expect the offices to make an ideal home for the city’s growing businesses. With a popular weekly street market, vibrant street scene and nearly 2,500 people soon to be living and working in the area, this new community is already starting to emerge as a new destination for the city.”

The Compressor Building’s ground floor is being returned to its former use as a fully operational and cutting-edge brewery by Left Handed Giant with a brewpub alongside, where visitors can relax and enjoy the freshly brewed beers in a modern, urban-style bar. This offering is due to open in June next year. Peter Sanchez-Iglesias of Michelin Star restaurant Casamia will take over the first floor with a new restaurant, whilst the second floor will feature an events space.

The unique new office space, which encompasses 15,000 sq ft on the first and second floors of the Fermentation Buildings, will overlook Bristol’s famous Floating Harbour to the north and Temple Cross in the centre of Finzels Reach to the south. Designed to make the most of the high glass atrium style roof and loft-like space, a range of flexible 2,500 – 6,000 sq ft office units are being created within this attractive industrial setting.

Finzels Reach is a highly-regarded new community being created on Bristol’s waterfront in the heart of the city by leading South West developer Cubex, funded by Palmer Capital.

Located less than a 10-minute walk from Temple Meads station, the striking s-shaped Castle Bridge provides easy access to the popular shopping areas of Cabot Circus, Quakers Friars and St Nicholas Market. It is close to an array of bus routes and ferries can be boarded from nearby Castle Park.