An initial feasibility study established a concept for the pattern of development that might suit the site. Pre-application discussions with Bristol City Planning and the South West Design Review Panel established frames of reference for the proposed residential use, bulk and massing of the development and the size of buildings appropriate to this unusual site.
The 2007 Planning Application
In July 2007, a planning application (07/2745/F) was submitted to Bristol City Council for a development comprising 108 no. residential apartments and townhouses with 2 levels of underground car parking.
This proposal included 4 buildings,an 11 storey tower element and a 6 storey building facing Bath Road. Images of the scheme are included below.
This application was refused in 2008 for reasons relating to:-
- the scale, bulk and design of the building;
- the impact of noise from the nearby waste transfer station;
- failure to provide a riverside walkway
- the need to provide affordable housing units within the scheme
- the need to make financial contributions to local infrastructure, education, parks and open spaces,, libraries and public transport projects
The 2009 Planning Appeal
In 2009 an appeal inquiry was heard. The Planning Inspectors decision can be viewed by clicking on this link 2009 Appeal Decision. The Inspector concluded that:-
a) the height and layout of the building would be harmful to views towards Totterdown from the Riverside;
b) that the building design had adequately mitigated against noise from the nearby waste transfer stations;
c) the riverside walkway that was provided was adequate
This decision is a material consideration which decisions on subsequent planning applications should take into account.
