_Former captain drops anchor at Brandon Yard - a new waterside development in Bristol Harbourside

Kevin, a former personnel director of a ship management company in Glasgow previously spent 22 years at sea, serving on a variety of ships as Captain.

Above: Kevin and Jane Slade 

Now retired, the couple chose to downsize from their five-bedroom old barn conversion in the small village of Langford, to a new two-bedroom apartment in Bristol harbour.  

The Brandon Yard site was previously part of the Canon’s Marsh gasworks, which closed in the 1960s and has been derelict since the 1970s.

The scheme will include the redevelopment of Grade II Listed stone buildings, West Purifier House and Engine House, together with a collection of carefully designed new build apartments. 

Above: Stunning views from the main living area

Having previously spent 16 years living in Clifton, the couple were keen to see what other areas of Bristol might suit their lifestyle, as Mr Slade comments, “We have always kept an eye on the gasworks and thought about moving back into Bristol – it all seemed to come together with the development of Brandon Yard.” 

The couple chose Brandon Yard due to its excellent location, modern specification and waterside views. Their new home will be a south facing, two-bedroom apartment on the ground floor of the converted Occulus House.

With its own separate entrance and large patio, it offers fantastic views of the water and SS Great Britain. Kevin commented, “Being so close to the city centre, we can easily go to the theatre, shops, or visit our old friends.”

Above: Waterfront views from the master bedroom

Another draw for the couple was the proximity to Temple Meads train station via a short ferry or bus journey, as Kevin regularly travels by train into London to conduct his role as Chairman of the Merchant Navy Training board.

When reflecting on the buying process Kevin stated, “The Acorn team have been helpful and informative throughout the buying process. Plus, not only did they agree for us to bring our two cats, they even offered to install cat flaps before we move in.”  The couple’s new home will be ready in Summer 2019. 

About Brandon Yard

Brandon Yard is a new waterfront development in Bristol. Located on Anchor road, the scheme will offer 58 homes, including 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments.

Situated opposite Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the development will be the final piece in the regeneration of the northern section of Bristol Harbourside.

Above: An artist's impression of Brandon Yard due for completion in 2019

Over the last 40 years Bristol Harbourside has been transformed from a working port and shipping gateway into a new mixed use destination, buzzing with an array of bars and restaurants.

The area is lined with original cobbled pathways and various remainders of the area’s industrial heritage – including the impressive cargo cranes from the city’s 1950s trading heyday.

The scheme will not only offer high quality new homes, but also a thoughtfully designed private courtyard for residents and bicycle storage. Enhancements will be made to the harbourside path that runs alongside the site, allowing residents to enjoy the waterside location and access the city centre through cycle paths and walking routes. 

Trains from Bristol Temple Meads reach London Paddington in less than an hour and a half, with electrification due to make this even quicker. The city is therefore ideal for those looking for a family base or second home. Access to London is also easy for commuters via the M4. 

Prices at Brandon Yard start from £295,000.