Bristol Zoo Gardens
Bristol Zoo Gardens
Following Bristol Zoo’s decision to vacate their historic urban site for a new location better suited to animal conservation, we advised Bristol Zoological Society on proposals to redevelop the existing site in order to raise funding essential to its future wildlife conservation programmes.
The existing site at Clifton is a purpose-design Georgian zoological garden of considerable historic interest, forming a locally-registered garden and containing six listed structures and animal enclosures and other historic buildings spanning its near 200 year history. It operated as a zoo for 186 years before closing as part of a redevelopment plan which includes the construction of 196 new homes, with 20% designated as affordable housing.
Our conservation team advised on the creative reuse of these buildings as well as the introduction of new residential buildings by Perkins+Will which will maintain the distinctive sense of place as the site evolves into its new use. The design emphasises environmental sensitivity and public accessibility, retaining mature trees and listed buildings, integrating extensive managed gardens, and introducing a large children’s natural play area.
For the first time in nearly two centuries, the gardens will be freely accessible to the public, marking a significant shift from its previous role as a ticketed zoo. The housing comprises buildings up to six storeys high, carefully positioned to respect the site’s historic character and surrounding landscape.
Our historical analysis and support through the pre-application process was central to the project’s approval. When complete, the redevelopment will reflect a broader trend in urban planning: repurposing legacy sites to meet modern housing needs while preserving cultural and ecological assets.
Client: Bristol Zoological Society
Architect: Perkins+Will
Images: Courtesy of the architect