Approval Granted for Demolition of Galleries Shopping Centre
In a landmark decision, Bristol City Council has given the green light to the demolition of the Galleries shopping centre in Broadmead. The plan, put forth by developers Deeley Freed, entails the construction of 450 homes, offices, and student accommodations with 750 beds. Additionally, the proposed development includes a mix of restaurants, shops, and the pedestrianization of the road adjacent to Castle Park.
The Galleries, a staple of the Bristol shopping scene since its opening in 1991, has faced challenges in recent years, notably following the emergence of Cabot Circus in 2008. The once bustling shopping center now stands largely empty, with many shops shuttered. Max Freed, director of Deeley Freed, expressed the view that the Galleries has become “obsolete” and in dire need of revitalization.
Speaking to the media, Freed highlighted the shortcomings of the current facility, noting its poor design and excessive reliance on car parking, which covers a significant portion of the site. He emphasized the transformative nature of their proposal, which aims to breathe new life into the city center.
The proposed development will see the reuse of the existing shopping center’s basement and foundations, with a focus on sustainability. By connecting to a district heat network and incorporating extensive solar panels, developers anticipate a 40% reduction in carbon emissions. The pedestrianization of Newgate, the road bordering the Galleries, will further enhance the environmental impact of the project.
As part of the redevelopment, the Broadmead Medical Centre and an assessment clinic for the Bristol Eye Hospital, currently housed within the Galleries, will be relocated within the vicinity. Deeley Freed has pledged £1.3 million to aid in the relocation process, underscoring their commitment to community welfare.
Of the 450 new homes to be built, ninety will be designated as “affordable,” addressing the pressing need for accessible housing in the area. The development also includes plans for a hotel and a music venue, adding to the cultural fabric of Bristol. While the prospect of hundreds of new homes was met with enthusiasm by many, concerns were raised regarding the height of the proposed buildings, with the tallest structure reaching 21 storeys.
Local Green Councillor Sibusiso Tshabalala voiced support for the development, emphasizing the importance of new housing and the potential for enhanced retail and dining options to invigorate the area. The broader regeneration of Broadmead will involve significant changes to the road network, including the full pedestrianization of Horsefair and Penn Street, with alternate routes for buses and taxis.
Reflecting on the decision to demolish relatively young buildings, Green Councillor Jenny Bartle acknowledged her reservations but ultimately supported the application. Bartle’s sentiments were echoed by the unanimous approval of the planning permission by the committee. While certain details of the scheme are still pending finalization, the overall trajectory of the project signals a new chapter in the evolution of Bristol’s city center.