Plans to build new homes on former Bristol swimming baths site withdrawn

Plans to build new homes on a former Bristol swimming baths site have been withdrawn, throwing the future of the land into doubt.

Housing association LiveWest had wanted to build 29 new homes on the previous spot of Fillwood Swimming Baths on Filwood Broadway in Knowle West.

But those who had commented on application have received a letter from Bristol City Council to say the application has now been withdrawn.

It is not immediately clear why the plans, which were first submitted in November 2021, have been pulled. LiveWest have been contacted for comment.

"Further to your comment I now write to inform you that the application has been withdrawn," the letter from Bristol City Council to commenters on the application said.

"Should a new application be received, you will have the opportunity to comment on that application."

The plans for the swimming pool site, which has been derelict since the pool was closed in 2005 and demolished, would have seen a mix of houses and apartments.

All the properties were intended to be “affordable” through a mix of social rent and shared ownership.

The plans would have also seen a multi-use games area on part of the site removed, with the council having submitted plans to relocate the facility to the nearby Filwood Playing Fields.

Tom Renhard, cabinet member for housing delivery and homes, told BristolWorld the council is still keen for the site to be developed following LiveWest's withdrawal.

"We're going to look about what can do with that site, we see it as a key housing site," he said.

"We're wanting to make sure we engage with the community. There could be an opportunity for some non-residential space in there. I can't make any promises but let's pick up that conversation and see what we can do."

The proposed redevelopment was part of long-awaited regeneration plans for Filwood Broadway, which has received £14.5m in government Levelling Up money with the community centre on the street due for a major revamp.

As part of the Levelling Up proposals, a former 85-year-old cinema, which was only demolished earlier this year, is also due to have 30 new homes built on its site.

Last year, Knowle West campaigner Nick Haskins attempted to build a football pitch and BMX track on the swimming pool site without permission - but stopped doing so after his work attracted anti-social behaviour.