BBC broadcasts intention to sell historic Bristol site

The BBC is looking to sell its former studios in Bristol and use the proceeds to upgrade the remaining facilities at its Clifton site. BBC Bristol leased three floors of Bridgewater House, a 162,972 sq ft grade-A office building, in 2021. The broadcaster has appointed Lambert Smith Hampton to market its 3.2-acre former site on Whiteladies Road in Clifton. The premises comprise a variety of listed buildings, more modern buildings and a large car park to the rear. LSH said subject to necessary planning permission it could be suited to a variety of alternative uses and represents a prime opportunity in the city. The Whiteladies Road site began operations in 1934 and was the largest BBC Studios production base outside London. It was the home of the BBC’s Natural History Unit, responsible for shows such as Blue Planet, Countryfile and Springwatch. It is currently the base for BBC public service content, including BBC Radio Bristol and Points West, and a range of national radio output, including factual for BBC Radio 4. Roxine Foster, director at LSH, said: “This is one of the largest opportunities to hit the market in Clifton for several years and is likely to attract widespread interest. We look forward to working alongside the BBC to identify a party with an aligned vision for the long-term potential for this historic site.” Photo © Lambert Smith Hampton