The development mixes old with new, refurbishing parts of the existing structures to create homes, shops, and offices ready to welcome the community and new homeowners in Spring 2025. As part of Abri’s strategic partnership with Homes England, grant funding has been used to make all the homes affordable. The scheme includes 107 new affordable apartments, offering a combination of one-, two- and three-bedroom homes, with 98 available for shared ownership and nine for social rent.
The site is significantly restricted and surrounded by residential and commercial neighbours in the heart of Southville, an inner-city ward of Bristol. The development includes adapting some original brewery buildings to retain the site's industrial heritage. Seven commercial spaces are being created, including the conversion of the original brewery manager’s house, and these buildings will be used to offer new services for the local community, including food and drink outlets, offices and creative spaces. The project also has the provision to connect to Bristol City Council’s District Heat Network, providing low carbon heat.
The Old Brewery's redevelopment is one of Bristol's largest affordable housing developments. This is significant, especially considering a recent study by the University of the West of England (UWE). The study showed that unique challenges face the region, including a 200,000-home shortage and a 400 percent rise in house prices over the last 25 years, while average wages only went up by 83 percent during the same period. A significant percentage of second homes also exacerbated local affordability issues.
Our role is instrumental in ensuring all new buildings are built to the highest quality standards and complement the rich heritage and design of the site’s existing architecture.
We are involved in a broad scope of work, including managing contracts between Abri and McLaughlin & Harvey, implementing thorough quality control procedures, and ensuring all works adhere to strict health and safety requirements.