In many ways, 2017 was an unpredictable year, and, as we continue to see disruption in both politics and technology, this is set to continue into 2018, writes Gordon Isgrove, Regional Senior Director, GVA, Bristol:
In Bristol, the property market has been on good form with strong take-up of both office and industrial space. The diversity of Bristol’s economy is the envy of many other UK and European cities, with projects like Engine Shed II playing an important part. We need to see this project take a further step forward now planning has been progressed. Looking ahead, I would like the City Region to continue to support economic growth across all sectors – corporate, SME and start-ups.
The City Region’s infrastructure – an area I would suggest has not received as much attention as it should – should be the centre of focus. The investment in MetroBus has now been made and much of the route complete, so 2018 must see it brought into use with an operator. Whilst MetroBus should improve the connections between the north and south of the city, a more joined-up strategy, that links Bristol Airport, Temple Meads Station and Bristol Bus Station, is essential.
The regeneration of the former sorting office site by the University of Bristol will be a game changer for the city, but at the top of my wish list for 2018 would be the upgrade of Temple Meads Station. This is the gateway to our fantastic city, yet is currently totally inadequate as a major transport hub for a city of Bristol’s standing. Other cities we compete with economically, such as Manchester and Birmingham, have the wow-factor entrance – that is our challenge.
Additionally, I really wish to see commitment for an arena in Bristol as the city urgently needs this and the spin off economic benefits will be wide reaching.
Housing supply remains a challenge for our whole region but particularly in Bristol. House price inflation has been the strongest in the city centre and is a barrier for many trying to get onto the housing ladder. We need to be creative and bold in bringing more schemes forward, and consider being less restrictive on building heights to achieve higher densities.
