Consultation kicks off over Bristol War Room bunker site redevelopment

A Cold War-era nuclear bunker near Bristol could be turned into part of a major new housing development, under plans put forward by developer Telereal Trillium.

Residents in Brislington have been invited to have their say on a redevelopment plan involving the Bristol War Room bunker, which dates back to the 1950s, as well as a complex of government buildings around it.

The site at Flowers Hill, which also includes offices for the Department for Work and Pensions and a driving test centre, could be repurposed into around 160 homes.

The Grade II listed bunker, designed to withstand an atomic bomb to protect the functions of regional government, has been abandoned for many years.

Telereal Trillium is hoping to find a new use for the building as part of a scheme that will include affordable housing, a children’s play area and green public spaces. Locals have until March to give their opinions on the proposals.

The group said it planned to retain the historic bunker “with the view to find a new, long-term and sustainable use for the important building”.

Sam Rosenkranz, asset manager at Telereal Trillium, said the site was “ideally located to secure future growth and housing delivery for Brislington”.

“Our plans will look to provide a range of starter homes, family homes and affordable homes to help meet the varied needs of the Bristol community, whilst providing an economic boost as the city looks to recover from the current crisis.”

The consultation comes after Bristol City Council earmarked the area to be part of its broader plans for housing and business development.