Sale contracts exchanged on former Bristol Zoo site
Bristol Zoological Society has exchanged contracts with independent housebuilder, Acorn Property Group, on the sale of the former Bristol Zoo Gardens site in Clifton, Bristol.
The exchange, facilitated by Savills, follows planning consent in April 2023 for the creation of 196 new homes (20% affordable), a new public park with year-round access, opening up the site to free public access for the first time in 189 years, a café and playground.
Plans for the 4.6 hectare site include a commitment to retaining and upgrading some of the heritage landmarks and buildings on site and repurposing the iconic entrance building to create a Conservation Hub.
Robin Squire, regional managing director at Acorn, said:“As a regional developer, we’re proud to be part of this landmark regeneration project for Bristol. It’s an exceptional venture which will give a new lease of life to the former Bristol Zoo Gardens
“Having first visited the Zoo nearly 50 years ago, I fully understand the connection that many people feel to this incredibly important site. We do not take the responsibility of delivering this project lightly.
“We are fully committed to the scheme, including the provision of affordable housing in partnership with a local housing association, restoration of historic structures and buildings, and ensuring public access to the gardens, which will see them open for free for the first time.
“The exchange on contracts is a significant milestone and the result of a complex process that required immense dedication and collaboration, a huge thank you to everyone involved so far. As the site progresses, we look forward to engaging with the local community.”
The move will help protect the future of the Bristol Zoological Society as it continues to focus on its mission – Saving Wildlife Together – expanding its conservation led zoo at Bristol Zoo Project, and continuing its imperative conservation work around the world.
Justin Morris, chief executive of Bristol Zoological Society, said: “The move to Bristol Zoo Project has always been about our vision for what we think a zoo should be. The new zoo will allow us to improve animal welfare, in larger natural habitats, and focus our resources on animals that really need our help.
“Before taking the decision to sell the site, we took extensive expert advice. Now, we have exchanged sale contracts with an independent developer. Acorn Property Group is committed to delivering the new homes and public space in Clifton, ensuring the gardens remain open to the public free of charge, for the first time in their 186-year history.
“Of the homes to be built, 20% will be affordable and the site will also offer a new public park, café and playground. The iconic zoo entrance building will also become the Clifton Conservation Hub – a public café, exhibition space, education and meeting spaces.”
Ben Taylor, head of development for Savills Bristol, said: “It has been a great privilege to support the Bristol Zoological Society in its work to provide for the future of both the charity, and of the Clifton site. This milestone exchange is the culmination of a huge amount of work, care and attention by an exceptional team of consultants and advisers to create a scheme that suitably reflects the significance of this much-loved heritage site.”