University submits plans for new £300 million campus

The proposed view of the main teaching and research building from Brock’s Bridge. Credit: University of Bristol

The University of Bristol has submitted an outline planning application for its new £300 million city centre campus, which will transform the seven-acre site next to Bristol Temple Meads railway station.

Seven new buildings will transform the former Royal Mail sorting office and part of Arena Island, providing a mix of flexible research and teaching facilities, accommodation for up to 1,500 students and a range of commercial outlets.

The campus will initially cater for 3,500 students, the majority of whom will be postgraduates, and approximately 800 members of staff will be based there.

Facilities will also be opened up for public use, including a training and skills centre and resources which can be used by community groups. There’s a focus on creating an attractive destination, or through-route, for the benefit of the whole city which will include informal seating areas by the waterfront and a public art programme.

Timeline

  • November 2017: Outline planning proposal submitted to Bristol City Council.

  • October 2017 to end of 2018: Bristol City Council will be preparing the site ready for building work to begin.

  • Spring 2018: Public consultation on the detailed design plans for the new campus.

  • From Summer 2018: Reserved Matters application to be submitted to Bristol City Council.

  • Summer 2019: Work to begin on site.

  • 2021: First phase of the new campus to be opened in time for the 2021/22 academic year.

How the main teaching and research building could look from Avon Street. Credit: University of Bristol