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Work to start on final piece of Paintworks jigsaw
An ambitious idea to regenerate a long-neglected site is nearing completion after developers secured a £30m deal to work on the final phase at Paintworks.
Plans for a further 92 apartments, as well as new office and commercial space, were first approved for the expanding plot just off the Bath Road in December 2016.
Rengen Developments, based on Redcliff Street, is now set to begin work on the fourth and final phase of the ongoing regeneration, which will include the demolition of the former Endemol building and part of Building Six to make way for new properties, which will be between four and eight storeys high.
Those leading the development say its completion will create up to 150 jobs – and mark the final piece in the jigsaw of a project that was first sketched on the back of a napkin some 17 years ago.
The sprawling site had been empty for 15 years before Verve acquired it
The sprawling former paint and varnish factory had stood empty for 15 years before Verve Properties snapped it up in 2003 with a vision to create a mixed community of residential and workplace properties. Planning consent was finally granted in 2003 and work on the first phase started in 2004.
Speaking about this latest deal, Ashley Nicholson, director of Verve Properties, said: “The idea for Paintworks was sketched onto a napkin in 2002 and it is really exciting to be completing the vision in line with that original concept.
“We’re pleased to be working with Rengen on phase four which is the final piece of the jigsaw. It will add the missing finishing touches; such as a shop, restaurant and café and make Paintworks complete.”
Paintworks has grown in phases over the last 15 years
The first two phases of development at the Paintworks involved the conversion and reuse of the former industrial and warehouse buildings at the western end of the former Central Trading Estate.
The thriving site is now home to a variety of businesses, including the Royal Photographic Society, Martin Parr photography, Sun and Moon animation studios, Great State digital agency and Bristol24/7.
CEO of Rengen Developments, Iestyn Lewis, said, “We are pleased to have secured this next phase of the Paintworks development having acquired this strategically important site.
“The Paintworks has a far-reaching reputation as a business and community hub, a creative quarter and a fantastic place to work and live. As a company we are committed to delivering housing and business space which complements and enhances the unique identity of the area.
“In line with the Paintworks mantra, we don’t see this as just a development. We see it as the creation of a place where people will want to work and live. We’re excited to get started on the project.”
The Paintworks event space hosts a number of events throughout the year
Alongside residential and commercial space, the latest scheme will include provision of 128 car parking spaces, along with public open space and landscaping works.
Read more: Sector spotlight: Paintworks
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