Bristol City Council has approved plans by Hammerson to transform underused land beside the shopping centre’s car park into a greener, pedestrian-led destination with new student homes, café space and a dedicated youth facility.

Designed by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, the project will deliver two buildings anchored by a 28-storey purpose-built student block with a distinctive octagonal shape.

A separate low-rise community building will sit closer to St Jude’s, with local charity Bristol Horn Youth Concern in discussions to take occupation.

Ground floor plans for the tower include a café, helping activate the street and tie into wider public realm improvements.

The project forms part of ongoing investment around Cabot Circus, with Hammerson pushing to diversify the retail-led estate through mixed-use development.