This ongoing phased public-realm scheme has transformed a much-loved section of Bristol City, adding a vibrant feel to this community overlooking the floating harbourside, with passing boats following the opening of Gaol Ferry Steps. This has opened the pedestrianised route flowing through the heart of Bristol, allowing easy access from South Bristol through the tree-lined street down to the City Centre’s waterfront and public green space.

Heading the project is a joint venture between Landowners: Muse Developments and Umberslade, a family-owned property developer that has a record of accomplishment in developing a variety of different properties, from residential, industrial, and commercial across the UK and Overseas. Awarded £12 million through the Homes & Communities “Get Britain Building” initiative in 2013, triggered the first phase of homes including a multitude of affordable housing.

‘Wapping Wharf Phase One was announced as the residential award winner in 2017 at the Michelmore Property Awards’

The land chosen to develop once stood derelict, therefore the restoration of this area has allowed regeneration of the city docks and brought the area back to life with a modern touch. The project encompasses a host of independent eateries, shops, and ‘CARGO’ pop-ups. This new concept is made entirely from shipping containers converted into mini restaurants as part of the Wapping Wharf experience.

Collaboration between businesses is key within the Wapping Wharf community, sharing local produce between stores allows the area to remain authentic and adaptable. Independent shop owners pride themselves on being freethinking, unique and affordable. Wapping wharf is a shared community supporting a range of important charities and initiatives including: ‘Bristol 24/7’s Better Bristol Campaign, Art Galleries and Museums, Bristol Children’s Hospital campaign 2021: Light up the Night and so many more.

Working alongside one another; architects Alec French and Landscape Architects: Gillespies to develop the landscaping masterplan phase one. The design included green corridors to enhance pedestrian footfall and cycleways for active travel, allowing this area to become socially inclusive for all. Seamlessly, this passage successfully connects to many Bristol locations further enhancing a sense of community among residents, retailers, and visiting tourists.

GreenBlue Urban supplied and supported the appointed Landscape Contractors: Afan Landscapes, Charlton Abbotts Forestry Limited and JH Homes during the tree pit installations. Using the specified soil cell solution: StrataCell, the tree pits have an uncompacted forest floor soil hidden below the cobbled streets at Wapping Wharf. The Root Directors below the surface will encourage the tree roots to grow down into the open soil void, eliminating any opportunity for pavement upheave. The trees had one last high-quality shimmer to complete the look, custom roundel designed tree grilles crowning each tree that adds character to the completed feel of the scheme.

‘Sunday Times has cited Wapping Wharf as the ‘best address’ on the Bristol harbourside’

Bristol City Council is enthusiastic about the positive feedback this development has received across the UK, attracting many visitors to the city across all months of the year.