Planning application submitted to redevelop Bristol’s Galleries Shopping Centre site

Plans have been submitted to transform The Galleries Shopping Centre in Bristol into a mixed-use redevelopment.  

The plans include up to 450 homes, a 250-room hotel and up to 750 student beds, alongside space for shops and offices.    

Deeley Freed, the development partner for LaSalle Investment Management, has submitted the outline planning application to Bristol City Council’s planning department.

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A Deeley Freed spokesperson said: “The proposals, if approved, would provide a major boost to the city, delivering much-needed housing and workspace as well as responding to the changing retail environment. 

“The scheme will transform the site into a much more diverse and landscape-rich environment, a day and night-time destination which focuses on community, place and bringing people back to the city centre.”

The plans include up to 450 homes, 20 per cent affordable; 10,000 sq m of ground floor space for retail, leisure, food and beverage, health, and community uses; employment space of around 40,000 sq m; a 250 room hotel or aparthotel; up to 750 student beds; and 1.5 acres of public realm and green space.

Max Freed, from Bristol-based Deeley Freed, added: “We’re delighted to have submitted this planning application after a lengthy pre-application process.

“This is a vital scheme for Bristol and we’re very thankful to all those who have got involved in the consultation that has been going on for four years.

“This is a once in a generation chance to re-invent, revitalise and modernise such a large part of the city centre. Our vision involves completely transforming this inward-looking, 1980s shopping centre, making the site more diverse, safe and green. 

“The development opens up the city centre to Castle Park, with a real focus on addressing Bristol’s priorities around housing, health and wellbeing, climate, ecology, tourism and the economy.

“In response to feedback through the planning process, we’ve increased the public open space, incorporated more community space and reduced the height of the tallest element.”

The application is expected to be live on Bristol City Council’s planning portal shortly with determination anticipated later this year. The shopping centre remains open as usual.