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Bristol City Council Approves Plans for 434 Canal-Side Flats Amid Concerns Over Affordability

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Developer Studio Hive has secured planning permission from Bristol City Council to build 434 homes east of Temple Meads, including 63 additional apartments beyond the initial 371 approved homes. Despite concerns over expensive rents and affordability, the plans were approved by the development control B committee with a 7-2 vote. The development, known as the Iron Works, will feature public spaces, a canalside walkway, and new green areas to boost biodiversity. Studio Hive has agreed to pay £1.1 million towards new affordable housing elsewhere in Bristol.

Key Takeaways:

  • The development, known as the Iron Works, will feature 434 homes, including 63 additional apartments beyond the initial 371 approved homes.
  • The plans include public spaces, a canalside walkway, and new green areas to boost biodiversity.
  • Studio Hive has agreed to pay £1.1 million towards new affordable housing elsewhere in Bristol.
  • The development will be connected to the district heat network, rather than having gas boilers.
  • Only 16 parking spaces will be created, despite being a short walk from Temple Meads train station and close to the city centre.
  • The site currently empty was formerly used as a foundry.
  • The developer, Studio Hive, is expected to make a profit of £13 million from the project.
  • Green Cllr Guy Poultney expressed concerns over the affordability of the rents, stating that the development is an "investment vehicle" rather than providing housing for those in need.

Statistics:

  • 434 homes will be built as part of the Iron Works development.
  • 63 additional apartments will be built beyond the initial 371 approved homes.
  • Studio Hive will pay £1.1 million towards new affordable housing elsewhere in Bristol.
  • The development will be connected to the district heat network and will not have gas boilers.
  • Only 16 parking spaces will be created.
  • The developer, Studio Hive, is expected to make a profit of £13 million from the project.
  • The rental value of the scheme is estimated to be around £10 million per year.

Sources:

  • Bristol Post, December 2022 (no date specified)

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