Shaping development through engagement
View a complete fly through of the project here.
The McArthur’s Yard site was one of the most high profile undeveloped sites on Bristol’s harbourside. Our approach focused heavily on engagement and collaboration, which helped to shape detailed planning and design work for The Guinness Partnership. The development comprises 142 residential homes, mixed commercial workspace and a café.
Large-scale development in the heart of the city
Built in the 19th century as a malt house, the McArthur’s Yard site included several warehouse buildings and structures which had been empty for 20 years. Originally the headquarters of Bristol-based metal merchant McArthur’s Group, the site is in a prominent position surrounding Bristol’s floating harbour, adjacent to the SS Great Britain.
The site is “view sensitive” which means our designs needed to consider a series of key views from the city – from the north, south east and west of the site. We also made sure that the designs did not prejudice the future operation of the adjacent Grade II listed working Albion Dock.
Effective engagement at the heart of good planning
Extensive discussions with key stakeholders and the local community helped to shape and evolve detailed planning and design work, to ensure the tone of the development complimented and enhanced the local environment. The dialogue with different stakeholders allowed us to uncover opportunities, build support for the proposed development and add value overall.
Working closely with The Guinness Partnership – one of the largest providers of homes for affordable rent and sale throughout England – and other specialist consultants we created a contemporary design that is sensitive to historic harbourside character, while meeting the aspirations of Guinness, Bristol City Council and the local community in parallel.
With construction now complete, the scheme has been recognised with a string of award wins including ‘Development of the Year‘ (SW Property Awards 2024) and ‘Residential Development‘ (Bristol Property Awards, 2024). It was also named ‘Best New Development in the South‘ at the 2023 First Time Buyer Readers’ Awards.
