• Swindon & Wiltshire Property
• Friday April 3 2026

Landmark student living project in Bristol gains planning permission

Plans for a 282-bed, high-quality student accommodation scheme in central Bristol have been approved by the city council.

The landmark development will see the demolition of a vacant office building and the construction of major purpose-built student accommodation in Bristol’s vibrant Redcliffe district.

Designed by Alec French Architects, the sustainable mixed-use scheme in St Thomas Street will comprise two 10-storey and one nine-storey wings around a central courtyard, as well as community spaces and facilities. It will feature 133 en-suite bedrooms and 149 studios, including 10 accessible apartments.

A planning application for the scheme, which will help ease pressure on the city’s private housing stock, was submitted by ROK Planning on behalf of 63 St Thomas Street, Bristol Limited.

The mixed-use development aims to create a contemporary student living experience with flexible community space on the ground floor, a courtyard, two roof terraces, student common rooms, lounges, a gym, as well as 142 bicycle spaces.

The state-of-the-art building has been carefully designed to reflect the historic and emerging character of St Thomas Street and the wider Redcliffe area, which is undergoing major redevelopment.

Sustainability is a key feature of the new building which incorporates low-carbon technologies, renewable energy sources, and water efficiency measures to reduce its environmental impact. The design includes an extensive green roof to promote biodiversity and create new natural habitats.

The applicants made a number of adjustments to the original plan following pre-application feedback, such as reducing the height of one accommodation block and widening the courtyard to enhance the experience of residents and increase natural light.

Robin Gray, director at Alec French Architects, said: “This much-needed new development will provide top quality student accommodation in a highly sustainable location close to university campuses.

“It will also help relieve pressure on the local private rental housing market, reducing the number of houses in multiple occupation, and make a positive contribution to housing land supply.

“There will also be economic benefits for Bristol, with greater student spending in the local area and the creation of new jobs associated with the construction and operation of the new building and facilities.

“The replacement of a vacant and outdated office block with a building of higher architectural quality will greatly improve the character of the area as well.”

David Caine, commenting on behalf of 63 St Thomas Street, Bristol Limited, said: “We are delighted to have secured planning permission for this important student accommodation scheme in a highly sustainable and well-connected part of Bristol.

“The development will transform a vacant office building into high-quality homes for students, helping to meet identified need while supporting the city’s wider regeneration objectives.

“We would like to thank the professional team and all those involved in the project for their collaboration and support throughout the process.

“Working together, we have developed a scheme that responds positively to its context, prioritises sustainability, and delivers an excellent living environment for future residents.

“We now look forward to bringing the project forward and contributing to the long-term vitality of the Redcliffe area.”