More plans revealed for huge Temple Island redevelopment

Plans to build 500 new homes - 200 of which will be affordable - in the heart of Bristol have been revealed by the council.

Bosses at the authority hope to invest £32 million into Temple Island which will transform the derelict land into houses, flats, a 250-room hotel and a conference centre.

Working with Legal & General, the council aims to complete phase one of the ambitious scheme by 2025.

Bristol City Council say the redevelopment will create 1,500 new jobs and bring a barren area of the city back to life.

The site had originally been earmarked for an arena and was known as 'Arena Island' - but in September 2018 Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees confirmed the land would not be used for an arena, despite the council sinking £12million in to clearing and preparing it for the concert venue.

The plot of land has been boarded up (Bristol Live/James Beck)

The authority has already agreed to spend £500,000 to progress development proposals for the new plans and if everything is given the green light, L&G will be handed a 250 year lease of the land.

Breakdown of the scheme

• The first phase will focus on the delivery of the two office buildings and the first four residential blocks.
• The second phase will see the final residential block, hotel and conference facility built.

Bristol Mayor, Marvin Rees, said the scheme is a win-win.

“This is a fantastic chance to bring a redundant piece of land back to life and provide jobs, homes and an economic boost in the heart of the city that all Bristol citizens will benefit from, " said Mr Rees.

"With these plans we can continue to develop a vibrant Temple Quarter, close to the city centre, where homes, work and leisure combine to be a place that Bristol can be proud of.

“This is why we will work with Legal and General to deliver this scheme so we can off-set any risk to the public purse.

"L&G bring with them investment, financial backing and a wealth of experience and have a track record of delivering similar schemes in Newcastle, Leeds and Cardiff which have reaped rewards for those cities."

The latest plans include:

• Up to 500 homes to rent and buy, with a target of 40% affordable so more local people can live in the heart of the city
• A state-of-the-art conference centre
• A 350 bed hotel with potential for a roof top sky bar with views across the city
• High standard office space to support the ever-present demand from local businesses and businesses looking to establish themselves in Bristol
• New public spaces, shops and restaurants creating a new city centre area where people can socialise and relax
• Easy connections to Temple Meads, the University of Bristol Enterprise Campus, neighbouring communities and the local transport network.