The site
Aerial photograph of the site before the buildings were demolished
The site
The site has been home to Graphic Packaging International (GPI) since the 1930s. Across the last century GPI has employed generations of local people. However, for some time the Fishponds factory had been unable to meet GPI’s operational needs. After 15 years of searching it finally found a new, modern facility in Yate, where is has now located to.
While GPI always sought to be a great neighbour, this Fishponds site sits in the middle of a mainly residential area, with a primary school among its nearest neighbours. Running a large industrial business – with lots of HGVs coming in and out throughout the day – was not ideal. Clearly, given the housing crisis, this location is far better suited to new homes.
As part of that relocation, GPI secured outline planning permission late last year for 252 new homes. It had, in fact, previously been granted planning permission for new homes in 2011, but that lapsed because GPI was then unable to find a suitable new site to move to.
The outline planning permission only sets the number of homes, the size of the commercial (healthcare) space, the location of the vehicle access points, and a key cycle link through the site. At the time of GPI’s community consultation it also displayed an ‘illustrative masterplan’ for the site, which showed a draft layout of housing, internal routes, green open spaces etc. While this isn’t technically part of the planning permission, it was broadly welcomed as the right approach. So, that’s what we are following, as we explain under Our proposal.
Demolition
As part of preparing the site for redevelopment, GPI has completed demolition and nearly finished the ground preparation works. We will take over the site once these activities are fully complete. Much of the material from the existing structures has been carefully reclaimed and reused, helping to reduce waste and environmental impact. Over 250,000 bricks have been cleaned and recycled back into the local area, supporting local supply chains and reducing the need for new materials. This approach not only delivers clear environmental benefits through reduced carbon emissions and waste but also provides social and economic value by supporting local employment and promoting a more sustainable circular economy.
Atlas Place framework
You may be aware that Bristol City Council asked GPI and the owners of the two other neighbouring sites (Timber Mills and Filwood House/Verona House) to co-ordinate our proposals, so the three developments complement each other, and all contribute to wider infrastructure investment including improvements to local road junctions. This resulted in the Atlas Place framework. Like GPI’s outline scheme, our planning application aligns with this framework.
Van dwellers along Goodneston Road
Local residents will be very aware of the growing number of people living in vans and caravans parked along Goodneston Road. The council is currently undertaking a consultation on how best to address this issue. We will need the vans to move before we can start construction.
Get in touch:
If you have any questions, you can:
- Submit them via the form on this website
- Email [email protected]
- Call 0800 193 9403