November 25, 2025
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Topping Out Celebrated at 360 Bristol!
Safer Sphere is pleased to congratulate Winvic Construction on reaching a key milestone at 360 Bristol, a major purpose-built student accommodation scheme in the centre of the city. The project team marked the topping out of the 10-storey development on 30 October, confirming completion of the new and refurbished structural frame.
360 Bristol is transforming the former South Plaza office block on Marlborough Street into a modern student living environment. The redevelopment will deliver 370 high-quality bedrooms and a significant range of shared facilities, including wellbeing spaces, study areas, social rooms and external amenity terraces.
Supporting the Gateway 2 Process
Safer Sphere has supported the scheme through the Gateway 2 process under the Building Safety Act. Our in-house Principal Designer team, covering both CDM and Building Safety, provided early guidance during design development and supported the preparation of the Gateway 2 submission.
This milestone represents Winvic’s first project to progress through the new building safety regime. Achieving approval has allowed the development to move forward with confidence and a clear compliance pathway.
A Retrofit-Led and Responsible Approach
The project retains and strengthens the existing 1960s structure, reducing embodied carbon and supporting targeted EPC A and BREEAM Excellent ratings. A green roof, improved public realm and a planned 1,500 per cent biodiversity net gain further demonstrate Melburg’s commitment to responsible and sustainable regeneration.
Fire protection upgrades and remedial works have also been completed in line with the requirements of the Building Safety Act, supporting the long-term resilience of the building.
Creating Value for the Local Community
The construction programme incorporates wide-ranging employment, training and community initiatives. These include:
Site visits for unemployed learners
T Level placements
Local employment opportunities
A Standing Tall programme pilot to support individuals experiencing homelessness into work
More than 50 people working on the project live within 30 miles and over 200 training weeks are planned across the programme.
A Positive Milestone for the Project Team
Reaching the topping out stage reflects the commitment and collaboration of the wider project team, including Winvic Construction, AG South Plaza B.V, Melburg, IESIS, ECE Westworks, HEXA and BOX 20.
Safer Sphere is proud to play a role in supporting safe, compliant and sustainable outcomes as 360 Bristol progresses towards completion in summer 2026.
If you would like to learn more about our Building Safety and Principal Designer services, please get in touch with our team.