Plans have been submitted to give an unsightly 1970’s office block in Bristol city centre a major face-lift, transforming it into modern mixed-use development comprising attractive accommodation for students on the upper floors and much needed retail / leisure space at street level. It will also create new public space and attractive landscaping around the property.
The planning application, compiled and submitted by leading property consultants Jones Lang LaSalle on behalf of Wainbridge Global Opportunities (Froomsgate) Limited, includes:
· A total of 438 student bedrooms
· New ground floor active uses comprising 300 sq m of commercial space (A1, A3, A4, D1)
· A new public plaza and associated public realm enhancements and landscaping
· Improvements to the external appearance of the building
· The removal of both of the existing bridges linking Froomsgate House to Trafalgar House/Drake House and Greyfriars.
Froomsgate House, a well located, but dated, 1970’s office building, will be vacant by the end of the year and is in need of a new lease of life. The exciting plans include the recladding of the front of the building and an extension to mask the unattractive lift core, which will significantly improve the appearance of this landmark building. The proposals also include major public realm improvements, including the creation of a new public plaza and the removal of two concrete walkways which cross Lewins Mead and Rupert Street.
Kevin Hunt, Associate Director at Jones Lang LaSalle said:
“The redevelopment of Froomsgate House will promote the regeneration of this part of Bristol and will deliver an active and lively use which helps to link Broadmead and the City Centre.
“The removal of the walkways has been a long standing aspiration of the local community and we’re pleased to be able to deliver what they’ve long been asking for.
“We have worked with the Council and the local community to bring forward these proposals which represent a major investment into the City. As well as helping to meet continuing demand for student accommodation this project will also bringing wider environmental and economic benefits in the form of new retail / leisure space and vastly improved public space”.
Rob Rackind, Principal at Wainbridge, commented:
“Froomsgate House was one of Wainbridge’s first investments, and we are excited about improving this high profile building and creating an attractive new facility for city’s large student population and the local community. As an alumnus of Bristol UWE myself, I have particularly close links to the city and am committed to delivering a high quality scheme and contributing to the improvement of the local area.”
A series of artist impressions of the proposed development are available.
