First look at huge housing estate planned for eastern edge of Bristol

A developer has taken another step forward with plans to create a new community with up to 555 new homes next to Brislington Park and Ride in Bristol.

Bellway Strategic Land, part of Bellway Homes, has published a report on the environmental impact of the proposed development ahead a full planning application for the 38-acre site off the A4 Bath Road, next to the former Wyevale Garden Centre.

The company has also revealed more about what is planned, and released a first image of the estate. It shows four-storey blocks of flats lining the Bath Road and a central avenue going up the middle of the site.

Rows of terraced houses can also be seen in the image, along with community pocket parks, green meadows and a plaza square. Between 170 and 200 of the homes will be classed as affordable housing.

The report submitted identifies that the development would be within an area earmarked for housing under the proposed Local Plan, which is currently under consultation.

It also accepts that the development wouldlead to a reduction in parts of the Bristol Wildlife Network, but that it would not have a significant impact on the network’s overall function.

The developer has asked Bristol City Council if more environmental surveys and assessments are needed to support a planning application.

Fergus Thomas, Strategic Land Director for Bellway’s Central region, said: “Bristol’s housing shortage is creating a crisis of affordability, with 18,000 people currently on the city’s housing waiting list. That number is growing rapidly.

“Our Brislington site provides an opportunity to help build the homes the city needs in the right place.

“Our plans are at an early stage and we will work with the community as we progress them. However, we have already established some key principles, such as creating new wildlife habitats and aligning with the West of England Combined Authority’s plans to improve the A4 corridor into Bristol.

“The identification of this site in the local plan is one of the first steps. Next, we will work with local people to create plans that are appropriate for the area and that the people of Brislington can get behind and be proud of.”

As part of a future consultation process, the inclusion of shops and community spaces will be discussed, along with the provision of new walking and cycling routes.

Bellway has already completed developments in Charlton Hayes, Whitchurch and Hanham. The company is currently building new homes at Berwick Green off Cribbs Causeway.

Once the council’s response to the request for the Brislington site has been received, Bellway will engage with specialists to assess the likely impact of development and how it can be mitigated.

A programme of community consultation will be undertaken before any planning application is submitted.