Planning application submitted for University of Bristol’s new library
Hawkins/Brown, Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects and BuroHappold have now submitted a planning application for a new library at the University of Bristol.
Located on a hilltop with panoramic views across Bristol, the proposed library is an ambitious new building that will create a landmark at the Woodland Road entrance to the University of Bristol’s Clifton Campus. It has a dynamic, stepping form that rises from three to seven storeys to negotiate a change in scale from the Victorian villas of neighbouring residential streets, to the civic and institutional buildings of the campus such as the university’s Senate house.
In addition to housing the university’s world-class collections and providing high quality space for researchers and students, the new library will enable the university to engage with the city’s diverse communities through delivering an exciting spectrum of social, cultural and academic outreach activities in purpose-built facilities.
The library will spearhead the University’s Campus Heart project to revitalise its Clifton Campus, which proposes new surrounding road layouts that will improve traffic flow; enhance pedestrian and cycling routes; evolve the public realm into more enjoyable, safer and accessible places for everyone.
In accordance with the University’s requirement for a high standard of sustainability, the library is being designed to achieve a BREEAM “Excellent” rating.
Bristol City Council is expected to make a decision on the planning application in the spring.
This inspirational new landmark for Bristol will provide world-class facilities in an inclusive and welcoming environment. The new library building has the potential to transform the relationship between the University of Bristol and the wider city, extending a welcome to the public and acting as a gateway to the revitalised Clifton Campus.
