Work is finally underway on the long awaited South Bristol Link Road, providing a potential lifeline for commuters, visitors and the local business community. And, by balancing the city’s North-South divide, it will provide a shot in the arm for South Bristol’s rapidly recovering commercial sector.
This is the view of property professional Paul Williams (pictured below) who believes that poor transport links have been a major factor in deterring many occupiers and investors from considering the area in the past.
“This scheme has been on the board for years – one of the main reasons why South Bristol has been held back for so long in comparison to other parts of the city,” said the Head of Agency at property consultants Bruton Knowles.
“Commercial property values have always been significantly lower this side of the river because of the poor road layout and the pinch points getting across the Avon.”
Williams believes the new route will provide a much-need link for the developing business communities that have been established in previously underachieving districts.
“The South Bristol Link will connect new businesses springing up in South Bristol’s Golden Triangle, helping them compete with firms on the city’s northern fringes which have enjoyed virtually instant access to the M4, M5 and the Avon Ring Road,” he explained.
“We believe one consequence of the new link road will be sharpened demand for further quality accommodation, which could mean new build or major refurbishment programmes.”
South Bristol has a large and skilled workforce, many of whom would welcome access to employment opportunities closer to home. The area also has a wide range of commercial options.
“What it has lacked,” Williams concluded, “is a direct link to the wider road network – connecting the new businesses which are creating so many jobs in previously struggling districts.”
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