Major industrial and hotel development set for green light

Plans for an industrial and distribution-led development in Avonmouth, which also incorporates a hotel and a number of retail and commercial opportunities, are set to move forward after being recommended for approval.Acting on behalf of St Modwen Developments, Turley is seeking full and outline permission for an application which is focused on seven parcels of land at the £150m mixed-use Access 18 scheme.According to a report to be scrutinised by a Bristol Council planning committee next week (21 July), one of the main considerations is the principle of land use, as the land is not allocated for the uses proposed.The application also relates to undeveloped land within an area of high flood risk which contains a number of wildlife corridors, and a designated site of nature conservation interest.Despite those issues, the application has been recommended for approval, subject to a section 106 agreement and conditions, as the proposal would strengthen the economic performance of Bristol and provide a significant employment boost.St Modwen has agreed to a number of highways improvements and contributions which officers were said to welcome, while a number of other improvements have been secured through negotiations, including improved sustainability credentials, a financial contribution towards the Hallen Marsh ecology and wetland project, and an improved design to the hotel.The positive recommendation is said to reflect the significant investment in employment opportunities in the area, with officers saying the benefits of granting planning permission would outweigh the areas of concern.There is evidence to show that the need for industrial and distribution uses in this area means it is likely that the land will be designated for such uses over the plan review period.