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Transformation Of Historic Quakers Friars Begins


Cabot Circus BristolWork has begun on transforming the historic buildings at Quakers Friars into the centrepiece of a vibrant, European-style piazza as part of the £500 million Cabot Circus scheme.

The site of the former Quaker Meeting House will be occupied by internationally renowned chef Raymond Blanc's 'Brasserie Blanc' restaurant when Cabot Circus opens its doors to the public in Autumn 2008.

Spread over 14,000 sq ft, the buildings are now undergoing extensive restoration using traditional craft skills, methods and materials to breathe new life into the Grade I listed structure while retaining its historically important design.

The two former Friary wings, Bakers Hall and Cutlers Hall, are also being renovated and will be available to the public as function rooms for meetings, conferences, private dining and wedding receptions - allowing those that registered their birth at the Friary the opportunity to also celebrate their marriage there. Customers will also be able to benefit from cuisine prepared by Raymond Blanc's team.

John Lederer, Managing Director of Brasserie Blanc commented: 'We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to develop this magnificent collection of buildings that have been hidden behind service bays and rubbish bins for so many years. Our challenge is to meet the demands of a modern catering facility while conserving the brilliance of this historical monument.'

Steve Wehrle, Bristol Alliance Property Director, added: 'A key priority in our vision for Quakers Friars has always been to give the 13th Century buildings the setting and focus that they deserve. The area is undergoing an incredible transformation and will be almost unrecognisable by autumn next year.'

Robin Dobson, Bristol Alliance Project Delivery Director added: 'We are delighted that work has now commenced on the Friary and look forward to seeing the transformation take place over the next year. Brasserie Blanc will be a fantastic addition to Cabot Circus.'

Widely acknowledged as one of the world's finest chefs, Raymond Blanc is responsible for the famous 'Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons' in Oxfordshire. He pioneered the concept of the 'Brasserie Blanc' in 1996.

The Quakers Friars area of the scheme has been designed by Bristol-based firm Alec French Architects and will be anchored by luxury retailer Harvey Nichols. It features an exciting mix of high fashion retailers, restaurants and cafes and over 220 apartments which will look out over Castle Park and the Floating Harbour.

Historical building conservation contractor Linford-Bridgeman, who also restored St George's in Bristol, has been appointed to carry out the specialist Friary refurbishments works for the Bristol Alliance.