Talks have reached a stalemate over plans to redevelop the Carriageworks and Westmoreland House in Stokes Croft. As opposing bodies continue to debate what’s best for the buildings, a meeting on Tuesday April 9 saw the committee in charge defer their decision.
The Carriageworks has been derelict for the last 25 years. However, in recent years increased pressure to regenerate the area has seen The Carriageworks Action Group (CAG) and housing association Knightstone collaborate in a bid to develop social housing on the site. More recently still, London developers Fifth Capital submitted a proposal to build 118 luxury flats on the site instead.
The Carriageworks were originally built in 1862 and extended in 1966 by Regional Pools Promotions. In recent years, the buildings have been used as an ‘open gallery’ space.
Redevelopment of the area is tricky because of the building’s Grade II-listed status. Put simply, redeveloping the building would not be cheap – it’s been predicted it will cost around £15-20 million.
While Fifth Capital’s proposal to develop 118 luxury flats seems the most profitable, not everyone agrees it's the best way forward for the local community. Only eight of the flats will be classed as affordable. Additionally, in an open letter against Fifth Capital’s proposal, concerns were raised that plans are too vague and a walkthrough area 'disingenuous'.
One group opposed to Fifth Capital's plans are Community Works. They've been working with local professionals to fight for a sustainable alternative. Following Tuesday’s deferral, they'll continue raising awareness about the impact redevelopment plans could have on Stokes Croft – as well as petitioning for support from Bristol City Council’s voting committee.
More about Bristol's art scene, which Stokes Croft plays such a big part in.