Fears new Spike Island flats could curtail 'noisy' businesses

Developers want to build 28 apartments on Spike Island in Bristol next to Rolt's Boatyard

Businesses near a proposed development of flats have expressed concern about no longer being able to make noise and fumes if the area becomes residential.

Developers want to build 28 apartments on Spike Island, Bristol, next to Rolt's Boatyard.

Planning officers have recommended councillors vote against the plans as noise in the area would impact the quality of living for residents.

"Protecting this (boat yard) activity should be of planning consideration."

The developer, Cocoa House Limited, has applied for planning permission from Bristol City Council for the apartments on a small car park off Gas Ferry Road.

It would include a mix of four and seven storeys with a smaller car park next to the boatyard.

The apartment block would be built on a small car park off Gas Ferry Road

The proposals have also caused concern among other neighbouring businesses, which include a puppet maker and the Old Vic theatre's scenic workshop, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

An artist and trustee at Puppet Place, who has not been named, said: "This new build will prejudice the function and operation of Puppet Place and the other small, historical and creative businesses in the area.

"We work outside and need to make noise and work safely with fumes and materials. If the area becomes residential, we will not be able to work as we need to."

The developers said the apartments would have mechanical ventilation heat recovery systems, which work similar to air conditioning, and windows would be triple-glazed to minimise the impact of noise.

Bristol City Council is due to vote on the application at a meeting on Wednesday.