Temple Gate, page 4: Guiding principles

The introduction pages set out some guiding principles for the whole of Bristol Temple Quarter. These are the guiding principles as they apply to Temple Gate:

Integrated and connected

• Integrated, transport-oriented development, being next to Bristol Temple Meads station.
• A focus on low-carbon transport opportunities, connecting to active and public transport routes, with minimal levels of private car parking.
• Improvements will be made to pedestrian routes through redevelopment of the site.
• Bristol & Exeter Yard will continue to provide the main access to the station for operational and servicing needs, also presenting opportunities for future transport use, such as mass transit.
  
  

Inclusive economic growth

• Use of the Temple Gate area will be gradually intensified to contribute to Bristol’s growing economy.
• A new mix of land uses will respond to the context of the growing Enterprise Zone and surrounding development.
• The appropriate mix will be determined by the development market, including housing, commercial offices and hotels.
• Workplaces will be designed to accommodate the Enterprise Zone target sectors – creative, digital, low-carbon and financial services.
• Accommodation will be designed for individuals and small families for whom convenience and connectivity is paramount.
  
  

Quality places 

• High density, city centre living accommodation will provide homes for professionals working locally or commuting, with a mix of owned and rented apartments.
• Offices and hotels will further complement the surrounding area and maintain activity throughout the day.
• Redevelopment will involve architectural design that improves the setting of the historic station and views from the station entrance.
• Throughout the area, new buildings will be designed to minimise their carbon intensity, including district heating.
  
  

Quality spaces 

• The Temple Gate frontage will be broken-up to reduce its imposing character and improve access to surrounding areas.
• Active ground floor use will be maintained along this major thoroughfare, such as restaurants and convenience retail.
• Away from the main highway, small streets and spaces will be designed for pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles.
• Courtyard areas will be introduced, including green infrastructure to provide a pleasant environment.
• The proximity of the busy highway means that this area is not well-suited for significant open space, instead looking to the new Goods Yard and Mead Street area to provide outdoor relaxation and recreation.
• Bristol & Exeter Yard has opportunities for longer-term uses, including improved access to other station areas which enhance the functioning and character of the station.
  
  

Vibrant and creative communities 

• The location of this area within the Enterprise Zone will determine the tone and identity of its redevelopment, characterised by a thriving community of professionals.
• However, within this context, there are opportunities for a diverse range and scale of businesses. Collett House (otherwise known as Temple Studios) will be retained as flexible, co-working space, continuing to serve creative and innovative small businesses.
• New housing and active ground floor use will create activity throughout the day, helping to avoid ‘ghost’ areas on evenings and weekends.
• Affordable housing will be incorporated to create an inclusive, diverse residential community.
• Bristol & Exeter Yard has potential to become a more active courtyard area, supplementing the existing popular bakery.

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