Construction work on what will become Bristol's tallest building is poised to begin imminently, marking a significant milestone in the city's urban development. Developer Olympian Homes has received the final regulatory approval needed to proceed with this transformative project at St. James Square.
Planning and Regulatory Approvals Secured
Olympian Homes was granted planning permission by Bristol City Council in March 2024 to demolish and redevelop the former Haymarket Premier Inn and NCP car park site on Rupert Street. The scheme has now also received crucial approval from the government's Building Safety Regulator, clearing the final hurdle for construction to commence. The development is anticipated to reach completion by mid-2028.
Overcoming Historical Challenges
The demolition of the Premier Inn building, located adjacent to the Bearpit, was completed in May of last year. This process required specialist oversight due to historical concerns. Council planners had identified an elevated medium risk of encountering unexploded German bombs from World War II, necessitating the involvement of ordnance experts to supervise the safe demolition, as previously reported.
Details of the Landmark Development
The development will consist of two primary structures that will redefine Bristol's skyline. An 18-storey co-living tower will provide 150 beds, while a 28-storey purpose-built student accommodation block, named St James House, will offer 442 beds. Upon completion, the student block will stand two storeys taller than the current record-holder, Castle Park View, officially claiming the title of Bristol's highest building.
Extensive Amenities and Public Realm Improvements
Both buildings have been designed with substantial amenity spaces to enhance resident living. The co-living tower will feature over 1,000 square metres of combined internal and external amenity space. The student block will include nearly 850 square metres of similar space. Residents of both towers will have access to communal roof terraces, lounges, gyms, cinema rooms, and co-working areas.
Beyond the buildings themselves, Olympian Homes has committed to significant public realm enhancements for the surrounding area. The project will add approximately 2,150 square metres of new public space. This will incorporate a kiosk, a public café, a new park, and a plaza that will create a pedestrian-friendly connection to St. James’ Park and provide direct access to Bristol bus station.
Collaborative Delivery and Strategic Vision
The scheme is being delivered in partnership with Cain, with the RG Group appointed as the main contractor responsible for construction. Richard Goodwin, Construction Director at Olympian, highlighted the efficiency of the regulatory process, stating that working with the Building Safety Regulator's innovation unit improved performance and enabled approval within 14 weeks.
A spokesperson for Olympian Homes attributed the project's progress to a highly collaborative approach and the expertise of the design team. Chair Mark Slatter emphasised the company's strategic focus, noting that Olympian Homes continues to advance its growth strategy by acquiring and redeveloping high-quality urban sites that deliver long-term value and support meaningful regeneration, even within a challenging market.
