Topic Projects
Date 26 Feb 2019
Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol, was among the guests witnessing the start of work at the major new Assembly Bristol regeneration scheme in the heart of the city.
Mr Rees joined developers AXA IM - Real Assets and Bell Hammer to celebrate the commencement of works on Building A, the first phase of the development, by main contractor Galliford Try.
The site, adjacent to Temple Way has been vacant since 2008 when the former Clerical Medical HQ was demolished. In total, the Assembly Bristol project will create up to 300,000 sqft of office and retail space, with Building A representing 200,000 sqft over 11 storeys.
Designed by AHMM, the building is a new architype for Bristol office space, comprising multiple uses, and a range of flexible office spaces for both local and global businesses in the services, creative, consultancy, financial, media and technology sectors.
Significant emphasis has been placed on sustainability and occupier wellness, with the development targeting BREEAM Excellent, WELL enabled and WiredScore Platinum. It will also provide best in class end-of-trip cycle facilities, including working closely with Brompton to provide a new public hire docking station. This will be in place from the start of the project to enable the construction workers to have an alternative way to get around town before becoming available to the wider public on completion of Building A.
In addition, extensive public realm is due to be created, including a new waterfront public space capable of hosting a rolling programme of events, and a floating harbour pontoon walkway to improve pedestrian links between Temple Meads Station, Cabot Circus and Castle Park.
Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol, said: “Temple Quarter is one of the most successful Enterprise Zones in the country and the development of Assembly Bristol will provide much needed high-quality office space near the city centre.
“We look forward to seeing the site develop and welcome the new businesses and jobs Assembly will bring to Bristol.”
Simon Burton, Managing Director for Galliford Try West Midlands and South West, commented: “It’s fantastic to be starting works on what will be a landmark scheme for Bristol. We are excited to be working with all the stakeholders involved to create a high-quality work and leisure space for the people of the city.”