Delivering a Class A Fire-Rated Rooftop Paving System for The Old Brewery Redevelopment, Bristol

The Old Brewery redevelopment in Bristol called for a complex rooftop paving scheme spanning 400 square metres across five distinct roof zones. Working alongside installer Afan Group, Wallbarn supplied a complete Class A fire-rated paving solution, delivering both safety compliance and structural precision for this award-winning regeneration project.

A Complete Fire-Rated System – Tailored for the Project

Wallbarn’s supply package included:

• MetalPad Ex adjustable pedestals

• Optional spreader plates for enhanced load distribution

• I-Plus aluminium rails for long-lasting structural integrity

• Specialised paving headpieces for accurate slab alignment

The build required both 600x400mm and 400x400mm x 50mm paving slabs, meaning every detail—from pedestal positioning to rail direction—needed careful planning to ensure compatibility across varying heights and surface conditions.

From Initial Plans to Evolving Requirements

Our involvement began in June 2024 with a virtual Teams meeting. After reviewing PDF plans, we issued a preliminary quote and proposed an initial system layout.

The project then paused for several months before resuming in December with revised plans. These changes prompted a complete update of the quote and layout, including alterations to rail directions and height ranges to meet the evolving needs of each zone.

Collaboration at Every Stage

We worked closely with Afan Group through a series of virtual meetings, refining the design and ensuring that the system would integrate seamlessly on-site.

Once materials were delivered, a Wallbarn team member and company director attended a site visit to inspect installation conditions. This revealed tight-space areas where localised adjustments were needed. Alternative solutions were proposed and implemented immediately, ensuring the system maintained both performance and precision.

A Regeneration Project with Historic Roots

The redevelopment transforms the historic Ashton Gate Brewery site, which dates back to 1829, into a mixed-use community. The scheme includes 107 affordable homes and seven commercial units, blending new-build elements with sensitive refurbishment of original brewery buildings to preserve the area’s industrial heritage.

Located in Southville, an inner-city Bristol neighbourhood, the site posed logistical challenges due to limited access and its close proximity to surrounding residential and commercial buildings.

Nine Months from First Contact to Final Support

Spanning around nine months from initial discussions to on-site adjustments, the project demonstrates Wallbarn’s commitment to more than just supplying products. We provided flexible design adaptations, proactive coordination, and hands-on support, ensuring the final installation met both safety and structural performance criteria without compromise.

Award-Winning Recognition

The Old Brewery redevelopment has received major industry recognition, winning Best Residential Development in the Bristol Property Awards 2024 and earning Highly Commended for Best New Development in the South in the First Time Buyer Magazine Readers’ Awards 2024.

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