Windmill Hill & Malago Community Planning Group (WHaM)

St Catherine’s planning application revised

Plans for the major retail, residential and commercial development in St Catherine’s Place (Plot 2) have been revised due to pressure from WHaM and Bristol City Council.

Some of the key changes include:

  • reduction of the huge tower from 22 storeys to 16 storeys
  • reduction of the rear block to 9 storeys
  • space for a northbound bus lane along Dalby Avenue
  • additional outdoor space from balconies and a roof terrace

No affordable housing is included – though the developer is now looking into ‘grants’ in order to provide some. The proposed cinema is still included.

WHaM will be holding a public meeting soon to get your views.

Plot 1: application refused!

The planning committee refused the Plot 1: Malago Rd planning application on Wednesday 4 September. Planning officers recommended refusal because of density and design issues and potential flood risks.

WHaM members and others, including Windmill Hill councillor Jon Wellington, made written and verbal statements objecting to the application at the committee. More than a hundred objections were registered on the council’s planning portal.

This is a victory for all of us who have fought against this monolithic proposal – but it’s not yet the end of the road for the developer which is likely to appeal the decision. We will keep you informed.

Malago Rd planning application

a2Dominion owns Plot 1 (Malago Rd). The self-described ‘residential property group with a social purpose’ has submitted an  application for homes for social rent and student accommodation (in collaboration with the University of Bristol).

Original proposals included accommodation for 550 students in six blocks (8 to 10 storeys) and 49 units of affordable housing (100% social rented) in a further block (10 storeys rising to 12 storeys). Revisions lopped two metres off the height of the tallest block – and reduced the number of social rented flats to 40. Completion is scheduled for the 2021 student intake. The application was refused at the planning committee on Wednesday 4 September.

Little Paradise planning application

Dandara has made a planning application for Plot 4 (Stafford St and Little Paradise). Proposals include 329 flats for rent to private tenants, a gym, a concierge and residents lounge. The height of the blocks ranges from 4 to 17 storeys.

A small percentage of the 69 studio flats, 171 1-bed flats and 90 2-bed flats will be offered at ‘Affordable Private Rent’ (20% below market rent). Eighty-four parking spaces and 358 cycle spaces are included.

Dandara is also working on high-rise housing plans for Plot 5, the Council-owned plot next to the station.

WHaM’s response to Local Plan consultation

The Local Plan contains proposals for Bristol’s development over the next 20 years, including planning policy for homes, jobs and open spaces. Site allocations for development are detailed at ward level. WHaM has submitted a response to the latest draft.

WHaM’s response to developers

As well as commenting on planning applications, attending meetings and keeping the community informed, WHaM has responded to developers with a Planning Brief, based on extensive community consultation:

What is WHaM?

  • WHaM is an open-membership group which provides a platform for residents, developers, Bristol City Council and other stakeholders to discuss planning proposals for the area. We are part of the Neighbourhood Planning Network.
  • WHaM welcomes development that prioritises community needs – we want to create a neighbourhood we can all feel positive about.
  • WHaM’s current priority is consulting on proposals for developments in the Bedminster Green framework area.

Find out who to contact with your views and how to get involved with WHaM.

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