Bristol City Council Faces Choice on Affordable Housing in Proposed Development

Strategic Insights -

Bristol City Council is set to make a decision on a proposed development in Bedminster, which has been altered to include fewer affordable homes due to rising construction costs and planning delays. The developers, Donard Homes, initially planned for 221 flats, but after receiving planning permission, they now offer a reduced number of affordable apartments, sparking concerns about the quality of the buildings and their impact on the local area.

Key Takeaways:

  • The developers, Donard Homes, have offered to increase the number of affordable homes from 25 to 31 as an alternative to appealing the decision.
  • The proposed development has been altered to include fewer affordable homes, from the initial 66 to 31, due to rising construction costs and planning delays.
  • Concerns have been raised about the quality of the buildings, including limited light levels, narrow pavements, and the potential for blocked views.
  • The developers, Donard Homes, have added extra fire escapes since changing their plans.
  • Donard Homes has approached 50 housing associations to increase affordable housing but found none interested in using government grants to purchase some of the flats.

Statistics:

  • 221 flats were initially planned for the site.
  • 66 affordable housing units were initially proposed.
  • 31 affordable housing units are now being offered as an alternative to appealing the decision.
  • 50 housing associations were approached by Donard Homes to increase affordable housing.

Sources:

  • [1] Bristol City Council report to the development control B committee, August 27.
  • [2] Letter from Donard Homes to Bristol City Council, dated August 2023 (exact date not provided).