Go-ahead given for Bristol mixed-use scheme

A major scheme in Bristol to demolish a multi-storey car park to make way for a mixed-use development has received the go-ahead.Bristol City Council’s Development Control Committee A unanimously approved the application concerning NCP Rupert Street in the city centre.Proposed is the demolition of the 498-space six-storey car park.Lined up is a replacement car park, two commercial units, purpose-built student accommodation with 328 bed spaces, and co-living accommodation with 249 studios.The proposed development seeks to demolish all existing structures to be replaced by a new single building. In plan form it is rectangular shaped at its base and “H-shaped” above, extending up to 20 storeys.Two ground floor units totalling 1,657 sq ft would be provided for commercial and community uses.There would also be a replacement public car park, to be operated by NCP, which would contain 400 car spaces and four motorbike spots between the first and sixth floors.Also included is public realm at both Rupert Street and Lewins Mead. It would consist of hard landscaping using new and larger pavements with potential for public art, outdoor seating, and soft landscaping in the form of green planting.A report for the committee noted concerns had been raised over the impact the development would have on heritage assets.However, it said the harm was considered to be “outweighed” by the public benefits.”The proposal would significantly enhance the townscape and environmental value of the street scene, delivering a high-quality building that accords with the relevant policies of the Local Plan,” it added.Alec French Architects is architect on the scheme.