Topping out ceremony for Plot 3, Bedminster Green

Bristol City Council officers from Regeneration and City Design teams recently joined Watkin Jones and invited guests for a topping out ceremony.

Watkin Jones, the developer, topped out their 819-bed purpose-built student accommodation scheme, Metalworks, on Dalby Avenue, which is part of the Bedminster Green regeneration project.

This commemorative event, which included laying the last remaining concrete at the top of the highest building, signals that the concrete frame works are now complete and was a proud moment for everyone involved in delivering the project.

The three-building development will be leased on a long-term agreement with University of Bristol. When it is completed by next summer, in time for the 2024 academic year, the development will offer 82 five-to-twelve bed cluster flats.

The scheme will have around 1400m2 (15,000 sqft) of internal and external amenity space and will include a private terrace, courtyard and gardens.

Metalworks is conveniently located near public transport links and an improved cycle lane network, providing excellent transport to university campuses. The development is within walking distance to Bristol’s city centre and Bristol Temple Meads. There will be no onsite parking for residents, except for four disabled student parking bays and two for building management purposes.

Green roofs will encourage biodiverse micro-climate habitats for invertebrates, in turn providing foraging resources for birds and bats. Solar panels will generate renewable electricity on site and the connection to the District Heat Network will provide low carbon heating generated off site.

Landscaping will support and encourage local biodiversity and residents will enjoy outdoor communal space, including a courtyard and access to the soon to be restored Malago River corridor.

Metalworks will support local businesses in Bedminster, particularly along East Street and Bedminster Parade, generating significant additional footfall by residents who will look to live, play and shop locally.

Bristol continues to be a leading destination for students in higher education and accommodation continues to be stretched. This major development in Bedminster will help the city address the on-going and increasing demand for student accommodation.