The need for affordable housing has intensified in Bristol where property prices have continued to increase. Abri is committed to ensuring people get the homes they need, with a target of building at least 12,500 new homes by 2030 and Bristol will one of many areas that benefit from this growth.
We’re already involved with some landmark developments, including 375 homes (75 of which are affordable) at Castle Park View which features Bristol’s tallest residential tower. At the Old Brewery in Southville we’re building 107 affordable homes (including seven commercial units) which will be one of Bristol’s largest developments of affordable homes. The build will mix old with new; refurbishing parts of the existing structures to create homes, shops, and offices ready to welcome the community and new homeowners in 2024.
Our approach is also about providing options and making a development work in difficult areas. In Bristol part of the issue is finding available land to build homes. With the population continuing to expand but the supply of land limited, we must ease that pressure by being creative and finding a solution for the land available. We’ve managed to do this on brownfield sites such as the former derelict Speedwell Swimming Baths, creating a five-storey building with 31 homes for affordable rent. Lockleaze is another area that has been derelict for years but working with Bristol City Council we’re building 74 new homes on Constable Road and Crome Road for the community. The development will provide 50% affordable homes, a significant increase on the usual 30% minimum requirement for new developments. At the Chocolate Factory we’re working with regeneration specialist Generator South West to introduce 36 affordable homes. This new development will also provide services for the local community, including a dedicated community hub, starter units for businesses and a café.
We’re also committed to ensuring that living in an affordable home means people don’t have to miss out on all Bristol has to offer by having to live further away. Affordability should also equal a central location and we’ve built 42 apartments on Dean Street and have 66 affordable homes completing next year at Coopers Court in Finzels Reach.
