Bristol's independent foodie and shopping hotspot Wapping Wharf is marking a decade since its residents moved into their new homes.
The previously disused former shipyard site was acquired by family-run development firm Umberslade in 2003 and, along with residential partner Muse, was transformed into a mixed-used neighbourhood of restaurants, bars, shops and properties.
In the years since, Wapping Wharf has become a popular harbourside destination among locals and visitors alike, with many of the eateries touted among Bristol's best.
It is home to over 1,000 people and 45 independent restaurants and retailers.
Stuart Hatton, managing director at Umberslade, said: “From the outset, our vision for Wapping Wharf was to create a real community here - a new neighbourhood for Bristol in its own right.
"A place that would make the most of this wonderful location and where people living in the homes here would find what they wanted on their doorstep but that would also become a go-to leisure destination for the city."
A thriving shipbuilding yard and dry dock in the 18th century, the site had fallen into disuse when Umberslade acquired it more than 20 years ago.
The vision was to create an attractive new neighbourhood that reflected the independent spirit of Bristol. In 2006 Bristol City Council approved plans to develop Wapping Wharf into a mixed-use development.
Muse was brought in as residential partner to create 45 mixed-tenure homes to cater for a variety of people and in 2015 the first residents and tenants moved in.
Umberslade also paid homage to the history of the area by restoring the 19th century Grade II listed Gaol Gate, creating a feature entrance to the neighbourhood and providing unification of South Bristol and the city centre.
Phil Day, director of project management at Muse, said: “Wapping Wharf is a shining example of what can be achieved through long-standing, values-driven partnerships.
“Over the past decade, our collaboration with Umberslade has transformed this once-forgotten corner of Bristol into a vibrant, independent community that people are proud to call home. It’s been a privilege to help shape a place that reflects the spirit of the city so authentically, and we’re excited for what the future holds.”
