Located on the iconic Floating Harbour and in partnership with award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group and Goram Homes, the resolution to grant planning permission for the flagship, residential-led regeneration will feature 166 new homes, 3,000 sqft of commercial space and new public spaces rejuvenating the riverfront with enhanced access. Dwellings will comprise a range of one, two and three-bedroom homes with a minimum 40% affordable housing for council-owned social rent and shared ownership.

The surrounding iconic vistas of the Floating Harbour and River Avon will be a focal point for many of the new homes, with apartments boasting stunning views across the harbour, Clifton Hills and the famous Bristol townscape. A new public route and green space will connect residents and visitors to the river frontage and lead to The Yards, featuring new public, commercial and community spaces cascading down to the waterfront to accompany the existing listed pub and a sailing school.

Community spaces on the waterfront will further enliven the harbour setting and complement the existing character and activities around The Cottage Inn and Underfall Yard – a collection of Grade 1-listed warehouses and sheds to the west of the site.

Buildings have been inspired by the city’s former industrial dockland, with designs responding to the local heritage asset of Underfall Yard. As such, Baltic Wharf references the distinct maritime setting and traditional, brick warehouses and vernacular prevalent in the area, with pitched roofscapes and varying tones of red and brown brickwork accompanied by stone and metal detailing.

Green roofs and landscaped podium gardens contribute to enhanced biodiversity, and wildlife habitats will be encouraged by introducing bat, bird and insect boxes into the communal green space.

The project has been developed through extensive engagement with local residents, stakeholders and council members, who have helped to positively influence the design development. As such, the designs and buildings were reconfigured in mass, form, and materials to address comments raised during this consultation process.

“This unanimous planning approval marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Bristol’s story. Our design capitalises on the iconic location and complements the local landmarks and social activities around Spike Island, Wapping Wharf and Underfall Yard to bring new housing to the people of Bristol. We look forward to bringing the proposals for Baltic Wharf forward and continuing to explore the opportunities in Bristol.”

– Ian Fenn, Partner at JTP