Bristol isn’t exactly lacking in green space, from The Downs in Clifton all the way east to Troopers Hill. The city has some of the lushest parks in the country. Soon we’ll add one more, however, as part of plans to transform the area of Filton in North Bristol
South Gloucestershire Council has approved plans to create a 15-acre urban, public park at the centre of Brabazon – the new neighbourhood being built on the historic former Filton Airfield. Brabazon Park’s design takes inspiration from the former airfield and will be equivalent in size to Castle Park in the city centre. It will additionally feature a stunning 2.5-acre lake, however.
YTL Developments, who are behind its construction, will begin work on Brabazon Park in 2023, with it due to open in sections from 2024. This will coincide with the opening of the neighbouring, 17,000 capacity, YTL Arena – also due in 2024. A new train station will service the new area too, but will not open until 2026.
A floating boardwalk around the lake will lead visitors by independent lakeside cafés and restaurants, where they can grab a coffee or a bite to eat. But locals will just as easily enjoy a picnic or a jog on the green space. A focus on activities means they will have access to table tennis, petanque, and outdoor exercise equipment too. While children will be able to explore an adventure playground, with a zipline and bouldering wall.
“Brabazon Park is for everyone. The range of activities and attractions will bind together the new community at Brabazon and benefit visitors from across Bristol and South Gloucestershire,” said Seb Loyn, Planning and Development Director of YTL Developments.
It’s not just for people though. The park will also encourage the environment to flourish, with new habitats built for birds, insects and animals – in the form of wild flowers and grasses, shrubs and mature trees. Aquatic plants will support sustainable drainage across the new Brabazon neighbourhood too.
Over the next 20 years, a total of over 86 acres of parks, playgrounds, landscaped gardens, sports fields and public squares are planned for the area. You can explore the plans for Brabazon Park here.