Plans for 106 sustainable new homes in Southville, a neighbourhood in South Bristol, have been approved as the city seeks to increase housing delivery to address growing demand. Top 10 award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group will create a £60 million development on Raleigh Road, on land that was previously the site of the Wills Tobacco Factory.
The project, which received planning consent from Bristol City Council following consultation with local residents, will offer a mix of high-quality housing, including three, four and five-bedroom family houses, one and two-bedroom apartments, and three-bedroom maisonettes. 30% of the homes will be offered as affordable housing through Sovereign Network Group, ensuring the development contributes to a diverse and inclusive community. Each home will feature private outdoor spaces, with select properties offering the added convenience of off-street parking.
Andy Hill OBE, founder and Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group, said: “Bristol has a pressing need for well-designed, energy-efficient housing, and we’re delighted to contribute to addressing this demand. This project reflects our focus on creating homes that not only respect the local character but also support sustainability and inclusivity. By working closely with the Southville community and with strong support from Bristol City Council, we’ve been able to design a development that balances the needs of families, individuals, and the environment. We’re committed to bringing this project to life and proud to be working on a growing number of other new residential communities across Bristol and the South West.”
The Raleigh Road site spans 3.5 acres and will feature housing design inspired by the classic terraced architecture of the widehill groupr neighbourhood, allowing the new homes to seamlessly integrate into the area’s character. Sustainability is central to the development, with features such as air-source heat pumps, electric vehicle charging, permeable paving, green roofs, rain gardens, and underground water tanks to reduce surface water runoff. There will also be a car club membership for residents. These homes will exceed energy regulations and incorporate low-carbon technologies for gas-free heating and hot water.
The project prioritises biodiversity, achieving over 20% net gain through extensive planting of hedging and green spaces. A pocket park is incorporated to provide play space and equipment for children and families, there are 212 cycle spaces for sustainable transportation, and improved connectivity to Bristol’s transport network. Designed in line with the government’s Safer Streets initiative, it features landscaped public realm and tree-lined roads to promote safety and help foster a sense of belonging among future residents.
Sovereign Network Group, Hill’s affordable housing partner, will play a pivotal role in delivering affordable homes within the development.
James Gibson, Regional Managing Director from Sovereign Network Group commented: “We’re delighted to be working alongside The Hill Group on this transformative project that will provide much-needed housing in Southville. Affordable housing is critical to supporting thriving communities and this development will provide options for those facing housing challenges in South Bristol. By combining affordability, sustainability, and high-quality design, we’re creating homes that will have a lasting impact for families and individuals for generations to come.”
Construction is set to begin in early spring, with the project expected to provide local residents with employment and training opportunities during the build phase.