News / Church Road
Latest housing proposals for derelict Church Road eyesore
Derelict buildings that have sat empty for years could be demolished to make way for eight new homes in Redfield.
Studio Yaqub, architects based in Stapleton, have revealed their design for the neglected eyesore on the stretch of Church Road between Dove Lane and Cowper Street, with plans to build a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as two commercial units and office space.
66 Church Road is the site of one of the earliest recorded buildings in the area and developers say their plans – which span 66-70 Church Road – would see the plot developed into a “thriving mixed-use site” that can benefit the local community.
is needed now More than ever
Of the eight previous applications, six have been rejected for reasons that included the size and scale of proposed developments.
The proposed building design for 66-70 Church Road – image courtesy of Studio Yaqub
The latest application has received 14 objections to date, with many residents arguing they see minimal changes in the current set of proposals.
One resident said: “I find the size of the proposals and the manner in which they will overshadow and overlook my neighbours arrogant and distasteful. It’s clear that profit is being placed before suitability and common sense.
“As many others in our community agree, we are not against the development of the site. It is the scale and disregard for the concerns of the community which we are objecting to.”
Others raised concerns about safety on the roads surrounding the development and the fact that the scheme would be car-free.
Developers say the site is within close proximity to bus stops, Lawrence Hill Railway Station and the Bristol and Bath Railway Path and will “reinforce the 15-minute neighbourhood with the addition of two commercial and one office unit”.
The plan is to build a three-storey property on the Church Road side of the site, dropping to two storeys along Dove Lane.
The current derelict buildings on Church Road will be demolished to make way for new homes if plans get the go-ahead – photo by Ellie Pipe
Usman Yaqub, a director of Studio Yaqub, said the scheme will bring “high quality residential and workspaces that are in great need”, adding: “This development will see regeneration of a brownfield site that is situated along a key juncture into and out of the city, it is hoped that it will lead to further redevelopment within the area.”
If approved, the scheme will include bicycle storage and “semi-private and private” outdoor space for residents.
Main image courtesy of Studio Yaqub
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