Ninety acres of green belt land on the outskirts of Bristol are undergoing a dramatic transformation into a sprawling construction site, marking one of the most significant, yet contentious, developments in North Somerset’s history.
Visible from the Long Ashton bypass and train routes between Bristol and North Somerset, this vast development occupies nearly all the green space between the city and Long Ashton. While the project sparked major debate due to its location on valuable green belt land, it promises substantial economic benefits for the region.
The land is being developed into the European headquarters for Epic, a leading American healthcare technology company. Though currently dominated by construction and mud, the future site will feature extensive green open spaces alongside five office buildings, a culinary facility, a training center, and a 3,000-seat auditorium, all set within thoughtfully landscaped grounds. Development will unfold in six phases, spanning from 2025 to 2041.
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Epic’s Wisconsin campus — dubbed their “intergalactic headquarters” — is renowned for its imaginative sci-fi and fantasy-inspired architecture, including a Harry Potter-themed cafeteria modeled after King’s Cross Station. However, the European headquarters’ design will take a more grounded approach, reflecting local architectural styles and utilizing regional materials.
The project faced fierce opposition, as the fields it occupies are among the most valuable stretches of green belt in North Somerset. Although North Somerset Council’s planning officers initially labeled the project as inappropriate development within the green belt, they ultimately recommended approval due to the significant investment and economic opportunities it presents.
Epic’s decision to base its European HQ here will bring 2,150 high-skilled jobs to the area and is estimated to add £147 million in gross value to the local economy annually, establishing the company as North Somerset’s largest private employer. Despite local residents’ fears that Long Ashton would become an extension of Bristol, the council voted 9-4 in favor of granting planning permission in January last year, drawing audible objections from the public.
To maximize local economic benefits, Epic has partnered with North Somerset Council to ensure local businesses can participate in construction and supply opportunities. Somerset Chamber of Commerce has been appointed to manage a program that connects local companies with contracts related to the development.
David Crew, Managing Director of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the opportunity this development presents for local firms: “The Epic Systems development represents a major opportunity for local businesses. This programme will help ensure that North Somerset’s construction sector is visible, informed and ready to benefit from the work ahead.”
This initiative is just the first in a series designed to boost the local economy. Upcoming programs aim to develop digital healthcare skills for high-value roles and create pathways to employment for disadvantaged groups and young people currently out of education or training, connecting them with jobs generated by Epic and its supply chain.
Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council cabinet member, welcomed the initiatives: “This is an important first step in helping local businesses prepare for future growth opportunities across the region as a result of the Epic development. We urge local businesses to seize the opportunities that will arise.”
He added: “The wider support package coming this year will be especially beneficial for sole traders, microbusinesses, and small firms, helping them gear up for future phases and commercial prospects within the Epic project and the broader regional construction sector.”
Local businesses interested in participating can register free of charge for the support program to access upcoming construction and supply chain opportunities linked to the Epic development.