News / Temple Island
‘Huge opportunity’ to shape future of Temple Island
What might in different circumstances have been the site of Bristol’s long-awaited arena could now become “a vibrant new urban district”.
Legal & General (L&G) has previously agreed to invest £350m to transform the disused site near Temple Meads, previously known as Arena Island but now called Temple Island.
In return, Bristol City Council will spend £32m getting the derelict plot ready, including sorting contamination issues, before leasing Temple Island to the asset management firm for 250 years.
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The council will also guarantee L&G rent on the office space for 40 years, an offer deemed “necessary” by mayor Marvin Rees to secure the investment.
L&G’s latest plans for Temple Island are for 500 new homes, office space for up to 2,000 people, and a hotel and conference centre.
A previously released artist’s impression of Legal & General’s plans for Temple Island, complete with requisite CGI hot air balloon – image: Legal & General
L&G Investment Management head of regeneration, Ben Rodgers, said that the company is “truly excited to continue the conversation about the future of Temple Island” as a consultation starts for the future of the site.
Rodgers said: “The project presents a huge opportunity to create a scheme which puts sustainability, inclusivity and wellbeing at the heart of its design.
“Temple Island has stood vacant since 1995, so we’re delighted to discuss our proposals to deliver a vibrant new district, offering major employment opportunities, much-needed homes as well as the facilities to attract tourism and delegates from around the world.
“We really believe this scheme will play its part in supporting the growth of Bristol, and cementing its position as a leading place to live and work.”
Legal & General will share Temple Island with the University of Bristol, who will develop the northern part of the site mostly as student accommodation – image: University of Bristol
Bristol mayor Marvin Rees added: “Temple Island is a major part of our vision for Temple Quarter, and will provide some of the new homes and jobs our city needs in a sustainable location close to the soon-to-be transformed Temple Meads station.
“We’re excited to work with Legal & General, who will bring their expertise and long track record of delivery to Bristol to help make Temple Island somewhere the city can finally be proud of.”
L&G say that they “are committed to delivering a landmark scheme” and have engaged the world-renowned firm Zaha Hadid Architects – image: Meeting Place
Main image: Meeting Place
Read next:
- Council blunder reveals hidden information about Temple Island deal
- £350m Temple Island deal finalised
- Bristol Arena opening date delayed but capacity increased
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