Plans for a new rooftop terrace at the V-Shed building in Bristol’s floating harbour are facing potential rejection from city council planners due to concerns from heritage experts regarding the obstruction of views of Bristol Cathedral. The terrace is designed to provide visitors with panoramic sights of the historic city, particularly sights towards Brandon Hill, the cathedral, and Prince Street Bridge. The proposal, which seeks to extend the terrace the entire length of the V-Shed, would create three distinct bar areas, each serviced by its own access stairs and a disability-accessible lift.
The comprehensive redesign has aimed to ensure safety and comfort for patrons, featuring glass panelled sides to prevent objects being thrown from the rooftop. However, city planners are set to recommend the council reject the proposal when it is brought before the planning committee on April 30, primarily due to the plan's impact on views identified as significant by local heritage bodies.
The V-Shed's owner, Padmanor Investments, originally proposed a plan that would have predominantly blocked the view of the cathedral from a viewpoint by the Arnolfini at Narrow Quay. In response to criticism, they modified their proposal, scaling back the pergola structure and retaining a partial view of the cathedral. Despite these adjustments, both Historic England and Bristol City Council’s heritage department have voiced their objections, highlighting that any obstruction of historic skyline views, especially of an asset as significant as the cathedral, holds substantial weight in planning considerations.
Bristol City Council's heritage department stated, “The public benefits are minimal,” arguing that the proposed changes would not enhance public access to the views, which can be enjoyed from other locations. They further asserted that the proposed terrace and its supporting structures would intrude upon “highly significant heritage assets” without providing adequate public benefit to warrant this impact.
Local Green Party councillor Patrick McAllister has spoken in favour of the rooftop project, suggesting that it aligns with the city's climate goals by incorporating sustainable design elements such as solar panels. Cllr McAllister believes that the terrace would not only generate economic benefits but also enhance public viewing opportunities across the city.
The proposal has received backing from Bristol’s economic development team, which argues that it would positively impact the local economy, particularly benefiting the bar and restaurant industry. A spokesperson for Loungers, the new operator of the Ritorno Lounge, expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting the demand for rooftop dining in Bristol. “This project offers the chance to transform the building into a one-of-a-kind, year-round harbourside destination to the benefit of the local economy and food and beverage industry,” they stated.
Despite the support from various quarters, including 25 letters from members of the public endorsing the project, no formal objections have been lodged. Local views highlight a desire for more rooftop bars in Bristol, comparing it unfavourably with other cities.
As the planning committee prepares to review the case, the ongoing debate encapsulates wider tensions between development and the preservation of the city’s heritage, underscoring the complexities of urban planning in a historic context.
Source: Noah Wire Services