28 January 2025
Leasehold disposal issued to enable Heat Network Delivery on Bedminster Green
On 1 November 2024, a statutory ‘disposal of public open space’ notice was issued by Bristol City Council in relation to land across Bedminster Green to enable the delivery of low carbon heat network infrastructure as part of the Bedminster Green Regeneration programme.
The proposed leasehold disposal of this land across Bedminster Green relates to the development of the Bedminster Heat Network led by Vattenfall and Bristol City Leap. In May 2024, Vattenfall obtained planning permission for the installation of underground pipework and associated works to form part of the Bedminster heat network.
For Vattenfall to deliver the buried network of pipes that will run under Bedminster Green, the council must formally dispose of a ‘leasehold interest’ of the land to them. The council will retain the freehold of the land and once the work is complete, the land above the buried pipes will be reinstated as green space and continue to be cared for by the council’s Parks team.
The Bedminster Green Framework includes plans to expand and enhance the Green as a public green space. The newly opened up River Malago will pass through the Green, and enhanced footpaths and planting will add to the Green as a public space for all to enjoy.
We apologise for any confusion caused by the disposal notice. The plan is available on request and is on display to the public in City Hall, along with full details of the proposal.
Below we have provided further detail on specific concerns raised by members of the public.
Will there be any change in the Green’s status as a public green space and will public access be impacted by this agreement?
The Green is retaining its original purpose. Once the heat network is installed, the Green will be restored for public use.
The intention is for the council to grant a lease of rights, which relates to rights to install and maintain pipes under the ground. Following completion of the installation works, public access will not be inhibited as the lessee will not be able to prohibit access. This is a lease of underground rights, not of property.
How long will the ‘leasehold interest’ last, what will be the cost and why is it necessary?
The proposed lease length is 99 years in order for the heat network to be operated and maintained effectively. The intention is for the lease to be granted at a peppercorn rent.
A leasehold is necessary to provide the security needed by all parties to deliver the Bristol heat network. Unlike a licence (which is a legal document that is terminable at will), a leasehold secures the rights for the heat network pipework over a long period to ensure operation and maintenance of the Bristol heat network and confidence in heat supply to connected buildings.
How will this disposal help to secure the promotion or improvement of the economic, social or environmental well-being of its area?
The disposal will be in accordance with Section 123 of the Local Government Act 1972.
As well as future proofing the city’s energy infrastructure, the developer of the heat network, Vattenfall, working as part of the Bristol City Leap Partnership, carries a number of commitments around economic, social and environmental considerations. These include spending £50 million with local supply chain, creating new jobs and offering a range of funding initiatives, including the £1.5 million Community Energy Fund which has already helped 21 community groups and individuals. Local organisations such as Windmill Hill City Farm and BS3 Community Development are amongst the groups who have benefitted so far.
There will be significant investment across the city to expand the heat network, to decarbonise the energy infrastructure by 2030, and only build low carbon permanent energy centres. As part of Bristol City Leap, over £60 million in social value will be delivered throughout the 20-year partnership.
Find out more about the Bristol City Leap partnership by visiting www.bristolcityleap.co.uk.
What will the impact on the trees of Bedminster Green be?
The installation of the heat network requires the removal of three trees. Other available routes were not viable due there being a high number of existing pipes, wires and connection under the road surface already and also required an additional tree and shrubbery to be removed, and therefore the selected route has the minimal impact on local ecology (alongside other factors). The trees will be removed outside of nesting season. In line with the Bristol Tree Replacement Standard, 20 new trees will be planted at a new location determined by the council.