The redevelopment of the Vassall Centre is a unique opportunity to provide an innovative, mixed use scheme for the whole community.

Bristol Charities purchased the Vassall Centre in Fishponds early in 2021. Together, we have been developing the vision to transform the centre into a vibrant mixed use, intergenerational development that encourages interaction and promotes a healthy and enriched community through affordable, high-quality homes for both the elderly and families, alongside accessible, contemporary workspace and community facilities.

Working actively with Bristol Charities and other stakeholders from Stage 1, AWW is developing an environmentally responsible, energy efficient design approach aiming for Passivhaus standards and a Net Zero Carbon operational target.

“We believe these proposed new facilities will breathe new life into the site, opening it up to people living in the area, making much better use of the space and increasing public and community facilities, green space and biodiversity. We are looking forward to hearing the views and ideas of our neighbours and tenants in order to create a high quality, sustainable and attractive new centre that is built to last.” - Richard Gore, chair of trustees at Bristol Charities

Our design also follows the HAPPI Principles which strive to create space and flexibility, embrace daylight and harness shared spaces.

Our modern, high-quality design will significantly improve the visual appeal of the centre. We are developing plans for landscaped, outdoor space for the use of tenants and residents whilst also reducing barriers and increasing public access through the site. Biodiversity will also be significantly increased including new trees, planting and space for wildlife.

The centre will live and operate within a vibrant community and therefore the phased delivery of the project will be essential. We are carrying out the work in two phases to ensure that the Centre will be able to continue to operate during redevelopment.

“It is our responsibility to ensure our designs respond to the complex environmental and social challenges we now face whilst creating innovative and attractive spaces for inhabitants. For the Vassall Centre, this means the delivery of a vibrant community hub as a new home for charities and social enterprises alike.” - David Perkin, Project Director

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