Hammerson is pleased to confirm that its plans to significantly enhance Quakers Friars in Bristol have been approved, unlocking new investment into the city centre. Bristol City Council’s planning approval means work can begin to introduce more accessible and interactive public spaces alongside new cultural amenities and landscaped public areas as an active part of the city centre’s ongoing transformation.
Plans include investment in the historic Friary Building, which dates back to the Dominican Friary that was founded in the 13thcentury, with the ambition for new cultural uses, and creating a focus for a flexible exchange space for community and creative events. The adjacent retail units will also be transformed and bring the potential for more services, such as healthcare and workspaces, adding to the already strong dining and food offer which includes the recently opened Six by Nico.
The plans are part of Hammerson’s ongoing commitment to Bristol city centre and follow a programme of investment into Cabot Circus. This includes the introduction of major new leisure, food and drink additions such as King Pins Bowl and Treetop Golf, as well as the transformational arrival of M&S and Odeon later this year. There is more to come, and everything aligns with Hammerson’s vision to curate a buzzing, multi-use destination in the heart of Bristol.
Harry Badham, Chief Development and Asset Repositioning Officer at Hammerson, commented: “These major new improvements will boost the city centre and act as a further catalyst to make Cabot Circus and the wider area a leading destination in the region. Thoughtful investment into public spaces and the surrounding buildings will unlock a new cultural and community hub for the city. We’re pleased to have had such a positive engagement with Bristol City Council and are well aligned with its ambition for the city centre. For almost 20 years, we have backed Bristol and our investment continues in 2025 and beyond.
Councillor Andrew Brown, Chair of the Economy and Skills Committee, said: “The City Centre Development and Delivery Plan sets out an ambitious vision to guide the future of our city centre. Providing planning approval represents a key step in the redevelopment of this area of our city, moving us towards our vision, to provide diverse retail and create a vibrant mix of culture and leisure facilities for citizens and visitors to enjoy.
“The Plan sets out principles that the council, working together with landowners, developers, businesses and the community will need to take account of in the future, shaping how redevelopment and improvement works are carried out in the area. Overall, the Plan will help ensure future investment, development and regeneration is co-ordinated.”
As well as global and leading brands, Hammerson continues to support smaller, local businesses with their growth. We do this alongside our support for key cultural activations such as introducing a one-of-a-kind arts activation with Aardman Group, hosting Bristol Light Festival and organising our very own free pop-up skateboard park.