News / Castle Park
First images revealed of proposed St Mary le Port development
Currently hidden from view, one of Bristol’s oldest churches could be returned to prominence as part of a major new development scheme for the medieval heart of our city.
St Mary le Port church gives its name to the area of Castle Park which developers hope will be a “new place to work, shop, and relax”.
The proposals will repair the historic church’s tower (all that remains of it following bombing in the Second World War) and place it “at the heart of this vibrant new destination that will combine Bristol’s contemporary culture with its rich history and heritage”.
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St Mary le Port’s restored tower is set to be at the centre of the proposed new development – image: MEPC
The view of the proposed new buildings from the east side of Castle Park looking west – image: MEPC
Plans for the development are for three new office buildings with shops, cafes, restaurants and bars on all sides at ground floor level.
Mary le Port Street, among many roads lost after the Bristol Blitz, will be “reinstated to open up the view of St Peter’s Church from High Street, and create a pedestrian-only street which features the ‘dramatic reveal’ of St Mary le Port Tower and links St Nicholas Market, Castle Park, and the two church ruins”.
Adam and Eve Lane and Cheese Market, also lost during World War Two, will also be reinstated to create new walking routes between Broadmead and the Floating Harbour.
Developers MEPC say that the three main buildings “have been individually designed taking into consideration the area’s historic identity, including one building that re-establishes the historic cross-roads – where the Bristol High Cross once stood – of High Street, Corn Street, Broad Street, and Wine Street, taking inspiration from the Dutch House that once stood on the site”.
The St Mary le Port site – photo: MEPC
Medieval street plans will be reinstated – image: MEPC
An aerial view of the buildings showing their ground floor – image: MEPC
MEPC commercial director, Roz Bird, said: “We’ve had the great pleasure of meeting with, and working alongside, a whole range of local stakeholders, over the last year, and this consultation is a really important step forward in our plans for St Mary le Port.
“We feel privileged to have the chance to create something really special and unique for Bristol in this key location – somewhere people can shop, share good food, experience art and cultural events, hang out, or simply explore St Mary le Port Tower, Castle Park and the Floating Harbour.
“We know that people have waited a long-time to see this site rejuvenated and we are looking forward to talking with people and answering their questions at our virtual consultation events.”
Developers say that the three main buildings “have been individually designed taking into consideration the area’s historic identity” – image: MEPC
Main image: MEPC
Read more: 22 things you probably didn’t know about Castle Park
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