Cabot Circus, Bristol's £500 million retail and leisure destination, has won three top industry awards, and Bristol City Council's work in partnership with developers Bristol Alliance has been key to its success.

The council worked with the Alliance to secure the land needed for the development and then managed the planning process; co-ordinated road planning and traffic management; provided advice and guidance on structural and building safety and advised on urban design, landscaping, public art and access for disabled residents. The city council also helped the developers liaise with community organisations and neighbouring residents - and supported publicity and promotion for the scheme.


Now Cabot Circus has beaten an international shortlist to win the coveted Best Shopping Centre of the Year 2008 award at the MAPIC retail event in France - and has taken the Supreme Gold prize in the British Council of Shopping Centre Awards 2008. The scheme has also scooped the European Standard Parking Award for the high level of design, safety and customer service provided by its 2,500-space car park.

Cllr Helen Holland, Leader of Bristol City Council, said: "Many congratulations are due to our partners in the Bristol Alliance on these well-deserved awards. The recognition that Cabot Circus is winning from industry and regeneration bodies is a great boost for our city and adds to our growing international reputation. Bristol has the ambition to match any city in the UK and Europe for the quality of our regeneration programmes, urban design and architecture.

"The city council is very proud of the key role that its officers, councillors and other partners have played, working alongside the Alliance, to make Cabot Circus a stunning success. In particular, I know that the work we are all continuing to do to enable local people to access the 4,000 new jobs created through the development is especially valued at this time."

(CD/JM)