Hicks Gate was previously considered unsuitable for development due to its location within the Green Belt. However, following viability, capacity, spatial, and opportunity assessments, the site was successfully proposed as a viable and deliverable area for growth in the emerging Bristol City local plan review.

The 38-acre site is located on the edge of the city of Bristol, in a highly sustainable location along the A4 Bath Road, adjoining an existing 1,300-space Park and Ride facility, and has a strategic cycle route running through. Bus services between Bristol and Bath pass frequently, providing access to mainline railway stations, and public rights of way connect the site to the wider River Avon area.

Bellway are working toward the submission of an outline planning application alongside an associated comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment for over 500 homes. These documents demonstrate deliverability despite constraints including Green Belt, listed buildings, historic parks and gardens, local nature reserves, and sites of special scientific interest.