Broadside Holdings scales back Broadwalk Shopping Centre redevelopment from 850 to 492 flats after strong local opposition.
The new “Redcatch Quarter” plan is out, after locals challenged Broadside Holdings’ original proposal and even raised money for the fight. The flats are now down to 492, with three twelve-story towers replaced by ninety-two townhouses, each with three or four bedrooms.
Flats up to ten stories will still line Wells Road at the Broadwalk corner. The retail and community space that was also part of the initial building plan has been reduced in size.
A community group took the council to court, challenging the planning permission process. The group expressed their satisfaction with the deal regarding permission for over 800 flats, which was originally granted back in 2023.
Laura Chapman, who led a legal challenge costing £10,000, spoke to residents and feels this is the best deal they could get. She explained that even if they won in court, plans could be resubmitted, and the government could approve the plan on appeal.
Laura stated that they backed redeveloping the center but knew there was a better plan. She explained that twelve-story towers would have loomed over Redcatch Park, but she now believes this plan works for Knowle.
The developers will build ten-story flats on Wells Road and the plan will “step down” to townhouses facing Redcatch Park. This replaces the approved tower blocks, though images are subject to change.
The council initially approved the plan in 2023, letting developers build 850 flats at the center. This initial approval caused controversy, as councilors first said no to the plan before it passed after meetings with officials.
Residents challenged the council’s change of heart, and a judge agreed to review the decision. Then, Broadside Holdings began to negotiate, resulting in a new plan that is smaller than the first but still allows the development to go ahead.
Laura believes Knowle deserved better and that they fought for their community. She is happy they got a plan for Broadwalk, emphasizing that the threat of legal review helped them a lot.
The developers will submit new plans to the city, requiring council approval. They are happy to have a deal for this complex project, which they aim to help the area with affordable housing and local shops.
The developer has reported listening to the community and working closely with Laura Chapman. Based on feedback, they reduced the buildings’ size, aligning it more with what the community wanted.
The developer will undergo the planning process with Bristol City Council. They will share the plans with the community, reach out to local groups, and hold a public exhibition.