Consultation to begin on Bristol Galleries redevelopment

The site will be used to build 450 new homes, as well as offices, student flats, a hotel, shops, and cafes

A public consultation is set to begin on the long-awaited redevelopment of a major city-centre shopping centre.

The Galleries in Bristol is due to undergo an "extensive" revamp that will bring 450 homes, community facilities, and "diverse" retail to the area.

The plans comes from Bristol-based developer, Deeley Freed, together with LaSalle Investment Management.

Developers say the proposal is a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" to reinvent the area.

Over the years, the shopping centre has seen increased vacancies and a reduction in footfall.

The Bristol Galleries was opened in 1991

Developers now hope to convert 30% of the five-acre (two-hectare) site into a "high-quality public realm with new civic spaces", to open in 2027.

A spokesperson on behalf of Deeley Freed said: "It's taken four years to get to this point and we're thankful for all the feedback and support we've received from neighbours, shoppers, retailers, stakeholders, officers, and the city centre development and delivery plan team.

"We've listened to what has been said and made some big changes," they added.

The plans include 450 new homes to overlook nearby Castle Park, as well as more than 46,000 sqm of offices, providing workspaces for up to 3,450 people.

Plans for the space include adding more pedestrian walkways from Castle Park into the city centre

Other amenities include allocating 8,000 sqm to "flexible and diverse" retail, food and beverage options, and up to 750 beds in purpose-built student accommodation.

Deeley Freed is hosting a walking tour to discuss the plans with members of the public at 12:00 GMT on Wednesday.

Virtual consultation webinars will also be held on Wednesday at 18:30 GMT and at 12:30 GMT the following day.