News / Galleries
‘Once-in-a-generation’ opportunity to redevelop the Galleries
Think of something that the Galleries could be turned into and it is probably part of the plans unveiled for the future of the shopping centre.
Newly released plans for the prime city centre site are for restaurants, shops, community facilities, leisure destinations, offices, a hotel, flats and and student accommodation.
The plans have been put together by Clifton-based developer Deeley Freed, whose co-founder David Freed is currently the master of the Merchant Venturers.
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Today’s view of the Galleries from Newgate looking towards Wine Street – photo: Martin Booth
Deeley Freed are working with LaSalle Investment Management to completely transform the Galleries in what they say is “an amazing, once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a world-class, sustainable, vibrant destination, one which will help reinvigorate Bristol’s city centre, responding positively to the changing ways we now live, work and shop”.
Footfall in the shopping centre is down 35 per from pre-pandemic levels, with the number of empty shops making its future “increasingly challenged”.
A Deeley Freed spokesperson said: “The proposals look to create a truly mixed-use and diverse scheme with restaurants, shops, community facilities and leisure destinations that support the day and night-time economy, office space, a hotel, open market and affordable homes, and student living.
“It will provide a complementary balance and range of uses that support the local community, boost the economy, address Bristol’s changing needs and priorities and ensure it continues to provide something for everyone.”
The view from what is currently the centre of the Galleries – image: Deeley Freed
Plans are to convert 30 per cent of the five-acre site into “high-quality public realm with new civic spaces and opportunities for urban greening”.
The proposals look to create “new, vibrant pedestrian linkages into the city centre” as well as terraces with cafes and restaurants on Newgate opposite Castle Park.
Subject to planning permission being granted, construction could start in autumn 2024 with an opening date pencilled in for 2027.
The Galleries was opened in 1991 – photo: Martin Booth
Viv Kennedy from Broadmead BID said: “Shops and shopping centres across the country have been struggling as they try to compete against online retailers and rising living costs, while at the same time trying to bounce back from the pandemic.
“The high street is constantly evolving, always trying to meet consumer needs as they too change, and we see mixed-use developments, with much more focus on the customer experience, as an excellent way to increase footfall, vibrancy and sustainability.
“We’d encourage people to get involved in the consultation as it’s in all our interests to get this important opportunity right.”
For more information, visit www.galleriesfuture.com
Main image: Deeley Freed
Read more: Artists showcase lockdown work in The Galleries’ empty shops
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