Council Officers Recommend Approval for Redevelopment of Bristol’s Galleries Shopping Centre

Bristol City Council’s planning officers have recommended approval for a major redevelopment of The Galleries shopping centre and its adjacent multi-storey car park.

The proposal, submitted by developers Deeley Freed, includes the complete demolition of the current structures to make way for a mixed-use development.

The plans outline a significant transformation of the area, introducing 450 new homes, purpose-built student accommodation for up to 750 students, retail units, cafes, bars, restaurants, and a hotel. Additionally, modern office spaces are planned, with the capacity to accommodate up to 3,450 workers.

One notable feature of the proposed development is an underground music venue, replacing the current underground area beneath Fairfax Street. The redevelopment would also add approximately 1.5 acres of public open space, designed to better integrate Castle Park with the Broadmead shopping district.

If approved, the project is expected to bring an additional 5,000 people to live and work in Bristol city centre. The planning application will be discussed at a council planning committee meeting next Wednesday, where the final decision will be made.

The proposed redevelopment marks a key step in the regeneration of Bristol’s central retail district, although it has yet to gain formal approval.

Picture credit: AHM Architects.