Plans submitted for major "sporting quarter" development at Ashton Gate
Bristol Sport want to create an indoor sports arena plus a hotel, gym, office space and car park
Last updated 21st Jun 2021
Plans for a major development at Ashton Gate stadium including an indoor sports and convention centre, hotel and multi-storey car park have been submitted to Bristol City Council.
The plans, formed by Bristol Sport, the group that owns Bristol City Football Club, Bristol Bears and Bristol Flyers would see the creation of a major new "fan village".
If approved it would see the Bristol Flyers basketball side move into the arena next to Ashton Gate, bringing all three sporting teams onto the same site.
A hotel would also be built along with a gym and office space.
Simultaneously planning permission has also been submitted for around 500 new homes on land between Ashton Vale and the David Lloyd Leisure Centre.
The plans were first unveiled back in 2018 with a consultation on the idea held in 2020.
In a statement Ashton Gate Chairman, Martin Griffiths said "it has been a long road to get to this point".
"We wanted to make sure we had the best possible plan in place to deliver this next exciting phase of Ashton Gate’s redevelopment," he said.
“Last autumn, and despite the difficulties presented by Covid, we launched another round of consultation over our proposals, along with the associated Longmoor housing development, we also held events with neighbours in February.
"We would like to thank everyone who provided feedback and comments."
Based on that feedback several changes have been made to the original plans.
"The tallest building has now been reduced by five storeys; community facilities have been increased with sports, fitness and well-being facilities added on the roof of the Sports and Convention Centre, plus the northern entrance (near Ashton Road) has been totally pedestrianised for non-matchdays," Martin said.
“The linked proposals of the Sporting Quarter and Longmoor developments offer significant regeneration benefits.
"The highway and transport improvements, the delivery of much needed jobs, the critical need for additional housing and the economic growth that will come from building a world-class sporting and entertainment quarter here in South Bristol.”
Eight years ago in 2013 Bristol City had submitted plans to build a new stadium at the Longmoor site, but that idea was ditched after opposition from campaigners.
In this latest planning application Martin Griffiths says the southern field next to the site "will remain green and not be built on".
"We will be working with councillors, residents and local wildlife organisations to enhance this space for the benefit of the wildlife and the community," he said.
“It means that the Longmoor development will capture a biodiversity net gain with increased protection for habitats and fauna as well as improved connections for pedestrians and cyclists.”
Bristol Sport say they hope the plans will go before a planning committee before the end of the year.
If approved construction would then start next year, with completion in 2024/5.