Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) has been instructed by the BBC in Bristol to market part of its historic site following BBC Studios’ move to a new city centre site at Bridgwater House and consolidation of the main BBC productions to part of the site.
The 3.2-acre site on Whiteladies Road in the heart of Clifton comprises a variety of listed buildings, more modern buildings, and a large car park to the rear. Subject to necessary planning permission it could be suited to a variety of alternative uses and represents a prime opportunity in the city.
Roxine Foster, director at LSH, said: “This is one of the largest opportunities to hit the market in Clifton for several years and is likely to attract widespread interest. We look forward to working alongside the BBC to identify a party with an aligned vision for the long-term potential for this historic site”.
The existing site has been in operation since 1934 and was the largest BBC Studios production base outside London and was formerly home of the BBC’s Natural History Unit, responsible for shows such as Blue Planet, Countryfile and Springwatch. It is currently the base for BBC public service programmes including BBC Radio Bristol, Points West and a range of national radio output, including factual for BBC Radio 4.
A combination of technological advances and changes in working practices have reduced the BBC’s requirement for a campus of this size, however the corporation remain committed to Clifton as a location. By reducing their occupation of the site and selling part, they will be able to use proceeds from the sale to upgrade and improve the space they do occupy to ensure that it meets the needs of the corporation for many more years to come.
By reducing its occupation of the site, they BBC plans to invest in and improve the space it occupies to ensure that it meets the needs of the corporation for many more years to come.
