PLATFORM_ submits plans for 350 homes at Bristol build-to-rent scheme

Build-to-rent (BTR) developer PLATFORM_ has submitted a planning application for the redevelopment of a historic brownfield site in the city centre.

Plans are for 352 BTR apartments and 6,000 sq ft of employment space on the 1.8-acre site, which previously operated as a sawmill and was acquired by PLATFORM_ last summer.

This would create 1,300 jobs throughout the construction and operational phases, adding £75 million direct gross value added (GVA) to the local economy.

The proposed development will comprise a range of studio and one-, two- and three-bedroom rental apartments – 20 per cent of which available at affordable rents – all overlooking the River Frome.

On-site amenities include a gym, co-working space, cinema room, private dining room, children’s play area and dog grooming facility, plus rooftop terraces and allotment space.

That’s on top of four double-height commercial spaces designed with local makers, creatives and small businesses in mind.

Jean-Marc Vandevivere, CEO of PLATFORM_, said: “Bristol currently has just four operational BTR developments, meaning the provision of high-quality, purpose-built rental accommodation is far below that of other leading regional cities like Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds.

“Our proposed development opens up a historic city-centre site that’s been inaccessible to the public for over a century, retaining part of its heritage while offering amenities, accessibility and sustainability.

“Working with an expert project team, we’ve developed a unique and flexible residential offering that meets the needs of modern renters while creating a truly inclusive community.

“We’re confident that Bristol City Council will share our vision, which offers significant social and economic value for the local economy and makes a significant contribution towards their housing delivery targets.”

The scheme will create more than 1,300 jobs throughout the construction and operational phases, boosting local employment, apprenticeships and supply chains, adding £75m direct Gross Value Added (GVA) and around £100m indirect GVA to the local economy.

PLATFORM_ has a pipeline of more than 4,200 apartments across England, Scotland and Wales.