Bristol City Council has given delegated planning consent for the high-quality and sustainable redevelopment of One Passage Street. Nicholas Pearson Associates conducted a Townscape and Visual Impact Assessment (TVIA) and prepared Verified View Montages (VVM) to aid the design and planning process

The site is in central Bristol, next to the Floating Harbour and the Grade II listed Shot Tower. Early TVIA work, including Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) mapping, highlighted key townscape and visual context issues. These included local streetscape proportions, the relationship with the public realm, and views along the Floating Harbour, especially in the context of St Philip & St Jacob Church.

Using ZTV mapping, we collaborated with the heritage consultant and Bristol City Council to select representative viewpoints. These viewpoints helped test the visibility and visual impact of different development options. This process was invaluable during pre-application consultations with Design West and Historic England, whose feedback informed the design.

The design features tiered setbacks that frame views of the Shot Tower and respect the local streetscape. Vertical and horizontal elements and varied materials break up the building’s mass. The plan also retains an existing tree and creates a new open space along the harbourside.

The final proposals offer a thoughtful design solution that integrates well with the local streetscape and enhances views along the harbour.