Source: Bristol Evening Post 12th January 2012
The developers behind plans to breathe new life into Bristol’s historic General Hospitalhave unveiled their latest set of designs.
As reported in the Evening Post, the proposal to build a controversial 16-storey building alongside the hospital was criticised by local residents and the civic society.
But the developer behind the project, City and Country Group, has amended the scheme following a series of public meetings and consultations with groups in the Redcliffe area of the city. Rather than opt for a tower block that would dominate the skyline of southBristolthe firm has instead decided to increase the number of new buildings planned for the site.
In total five new buildings are planned which in total would mean that around 200 new flats will be created at what is likely to be one of the city’s most prestigious residential complexes. The developers claimed the 16 storey tower was necessary to help make their plans viable and to be able to afford a substantial payment under the section 106agreement rules to Bristol City Council.
Originally the firm was looking at three different options for the site. They were a nine-storey building with 70 flats, 12 storeys with 85 flats and 16 storeys with 100 flats.
Although all three options have been dropped in favour of buildings that will be the same height as the hospital, the number of new flats under the current scheme will be the same as the second option. City and Country’s Residential Managing Director Helen Moore is leading the project and has been involved in the consultations with the various organisations and residents groups.
She said, “On the whole the reaction to our plans has been incredibly positive and most people are thrilled that this important and historic building will be restored to its former glory. We are creating a new building next to the hospital and we want to make this a landmark building in Bristol which is in keeping with its setting and will compliment the hospital.”
She added, “We have taken on board what the residents and key organisations have said to us. Of course there was concern expressed about a 16-storey building. That was always just one of a number of options but we have listened to what people have said and amended our plans accordingly. The scheme will also see new cafes bars and restaurants onLower Guinea Streetand the aim is to build on the work that has already been carried out to regenerate the Harbourside area.”
City & Country bought the site for £6 million last year and the aim is to lodge a planning application in February. Ms Moore said “We are aiming for the June planning meeting and if all goes well then we would be moving onto the site to start work in July. One of the beauties of this scheme is that it is still a working hospital. We do not want to leave the building standing empty for too long because that is when you tart to get problems. We have carried out projects in empty hospitals which have been badly damaged by vandals.” She added, “We have been holding discussions with the planners and so far they have been very positive. The planners have been very receptive especially to our latest master plan.”
A final public exhibition of the developer’s plans is currently being held at the hospital.