Plans are set to be unveiled for “a new permanent home” for businesses housed in CARGO - a network of converted shipping containers at Wapping Wharf in Bristol.
Developer Umberslade, the owner of the harbourside hub of independent shops and restaurants, has announced it will reveal proposals later this month for a new development at the mixed-use city centre site.
Wapping Wharf is home to more than 40 businesses by Bristol’s historic harbour, and supports around 250 to 300 full and part-time jobs in the city’s retail and hospitality sectors.
The company said the regeneration project’s latest phase, called Wapping Wharf North, could create a “bold, innovative centrepiece” for the neighbourhood, including new homes, as well as retail and commercial space.
Umberslade said its plans would “secure the future” for the businesses based in the “temporary” containers at CARGO, supporting further growth and job creation.
The firm added flexible workspaces could also be provided, with work already well under way to convert a derelict warehouse on the site - the former factory of chocolate manufacturer J and S Fry - into 20,000 sq ft office facility for up to 230 people, dubbed CARGO Work.
As well as an expanding business community, Wapping Wharf also comprises 450 homes, with that number set to rise to 600 when the neighbourhood’s current phase of development is completed.
Umberslade said the Wapping Wharf North could provide a range of homes of “different tenures”, with 20% classed as affordable in a bid to tackle the city’s housing crisis.
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Proposals have also been drawn up for “innovative design and new public spaces” to enhance visitors' experience of the docklands destination, to contribute to its reputation as a “thriving leisure hub”.
Umberslade said its design and planning team had worked alongside Wapping Wharf’s retail tenants, council officers, statutory consultees and other stakeholders at the site to shape the fresh plans.
Two drop-in style consultation sessions will be held at CARGO Work on June 21 and 22, where the public, local residents and businesses will be able to provide feedback ahead of a formal planning submission.
Stuart Hatton, managing director of Umberslade, said: "We are excited to be able to reveal our proposals for Wapping Wharf North later this month. Our vision is to create something very special for Bristol that builds on the success and special character of Wapping Wharf and establishes a long-term sustainable future for its growing community.
"We want to support the future of the independent businesses at CARGO by providing a permanent home where they can grow and flourish, as well as creating much-needed new homes, including affordable, more workspace and retail space and welcoming public spaces.
“Our innovative designs will reflect the character of the city and industrial feel of the surrounding area, with sustainability and support for biodiversity at their heart.”
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