Contracts exchanged on former Bristol Zoo Gardens site
Contracts have been exchanged on the sale of the former Bristol Zoo Gardens, paving the way for a major housing scheme.
Acorn Property Group has exchanged contracts with British Zoological Society on the site in Clifton.
Planning consent for the 11.3 acre site was granted by Bristol City Council in April 2023.
The scheme would deliver 196 homes as well as a public park – opening the site up to free public access for the first time in 189 years.
Robin Squire, regional managing director at Acorn, said: “The exchange of 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.”
Justin Morris, chief executive of Bristol Zoological Society, said: “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 per cent 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.”
Savills was instructed as agent on behalf of Bristol Zoological Society with Land Rich Select Partnerships instructed on behalf of Acorn.
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.”
