The Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions (DOETR) has ordered a public inquiry into plans for a 133.5 ha (330 acre) science park at Emersons Green in North Bristol.
Joint developers Heron, Gallagher and Chesterfield propose to build a 77,100 sq m (830,000 sq ft) of B1, B2 and B8 and a mixed-leisure and office use.
South Gloucester Council – which granted planning consent for the scheme – has slammed the decision saying that it will create uncertainty and affect its negotiations with landowners who are trying to create a ‘comprehensive’ development.
The council claims DOETR buckled calls from Bristol City councillors to reconsider the scheme. But the department says it called the scheme in because of its size and location. the scheme is close to Junction 19 of the M4 which could bring into conflict with PPG13.
However, the DoE has not intervened with Howsmoor and ESN’s plans to develop the western part of the site.
EGi News 22/08/97
