A vast expanse of 90 acres on the edge of Bristol’s green belt has been transformed into a sprawling construction site for a landmark development that is stirring both excitement and debate. Visible to commuters along the Long Ashton bypass and trains between Bristol and North Somerset, this new project marks one of the most significant—and controversial—developments in North Somerset’s recent history.
The site, once open fields, is being developed into the European headquarters for Epic, a leading American healthcare technology company. Although construction currently leaves the land muddy and exposed, once complete, much of the site will feature landscaped green spaces surrounding a futuristic campus. The headquarters will include five office buildings, a culinary center, a training facility, and a 3,000-seat auditorium. The comprehensive development plan is set to unfold in six phases from 2025 to 2041.
Epic’s U.S. headquarters in Wisconsin is renowned for its themed office blocks inspired by sci-fi and fantasy worlds, attracting tourists on weekends. However, the North Somerset facility aims for a more locally grounded design, reflecting regional architecture and utilizing local materials to blend with the landscape.
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The project sparked controversy as the fields between Bristol and Long Ashton represent some of the most cherished green belt land in the region. Despite North Somerset Council’s planning officers labeling the development as “inappropriate” for green belt land, overriding professional advice, planning permission was granted due to the anticipated substantial economic benefits.
Epic’s new campus is projected to create 2,150 high-quality jobs and inject around £147 million in annual gross value added (GVA) to the local economy, positioning it as a project of national importance. Brandon Reynolds, Epic’s representative, highlighted the scale by stating, “This would make us the largest private employer in North Somerset.”
Local residents voiced concerns about the impact on community character, with Long Ashton fearing the area would become a “conurbation of Bristol.” The January planning committee vote passed 9-4 but was met with vocal disapproval from public gallery attendees.
As part of the planning approval, Epic committed to maximizing the local economic benefits by collaborating with North Somerset Council. Somerset Chamber of Commerce has now been tasked with running an initiative to connect local companies with construction contract opportunities arising from the development.
David Crew, Managing Director of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, stated, “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 only the first in a series aimed at expanding the positive economic impact locally. Upcoming projects will focus on digital healthcare skills training, aimed at equipping people for high-value roles, alongside a “skills pathway” designed to support disadvantaged groups and youth not currently in education, employment, or training to find jobs with Epic and its supply chain.
Council Cabinet Member Mark Canniford emphasized the importance of the programme: “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 encourage our local enterprises to seize the opportunities that will arise from Epic settling in North Somerset.”
Canniford also highlighted that the support package would especially benefit sole traders, microbusinesses, and smaller firms, preparing them for future project phases and broader commercial prospects within the Epic project and the regional construction sector.
Businesses interested in participating in the support programme can register free of charge to access opportunities linked to the Epic development.