Release Date:  07-Mar-2008

Two 'historic' decisions were taken by Bristol City Council this week (week ending March 14th 2008) to start to deliver a massive regeneration scheme in the south of the city that will create new jobs, housing, health services, leisure opportunities and community facilities.

On March 12th, the council's Area Planning Committee (South and East) voted unanimously to grant planning permission for three of the key elements of the initial phase of the regeneration programme - a South Bristol Community Hospital funded by the NHS, a South Bristol Skills Academy delivered through City of Bristol College and the road access and other infrastructure needed to make the scheme a reality.

Other elements of the first phase include 'Healthplex' leisure centre and a new 19,000 square metres business headquarters building.

Then within 24 hours, the council's Cabinet voted to agree to invest a further £12.5 million to deliver the infrastructure - including the road access, services, landscaping, open space, parking facilities and other works needed to open up the land off Whitchurch Lane for development. £5 million of the new money would come from the council's own capital resources - bringing the total council investment in the project to £10 million. The remaining £7.5 milllion is expected come from the government's national 'growth points' fund.

The latest funding announcements bring the total resources available to deliver the infrastructure to over £28 million.

Cllr Helen Holland, Leader of the Council told the Cabinet meeting: " Our planning committee made an historic decision by approving the proposals - and the Cabinet's decision to invest this significant new sum in the infrastructure is another historic decision.

" The Hengrove Park development will deliver a wide range of new opportunities and facilities for the people of South Bristol, helping to tackle deprivation and disadvantage and ensuring even more residents share in the success of our city's powerful economy. I believe it will transform South Bristol into one of the most sought after places to live, work, invest and play in the south west and deliver significant economic benefits for the West of England and the south west region as a whole.

" This additional investment underlines our commitment to the Hengrove Park scheme and the wider regeneration of South Bristol. It sends a powerful message to our partners that we are determined to drive the project forward.”

Cllr Mark Bradshaw, Executive Member for Access and Environment, added: " This project will transform connectivity, jobs and facilities in this part of South Bristol. The funding for the infrastructure will make sure that the investment in facilities by the council and its partners is matched by improved public transport and connectivity."

Author:  

Simon Caplan Tel: 0117 922 2647

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