APPLE has confirmed it will shut a huge city centre store forever, as the area is set to change dramatically.
Shoppers complain there will be “no reason” to visit the place again if redevelopment plans go ahead.
has revealed it will permanently close its branch ahead of Quaker Friars redevelopment plans.
The on August 9 but a replacement is yet to be revealed.
Artist impressions show the future of Cabot Circus with the shops along Philadelphia Street to become a “multilevel arrangement of uses”.
It will comprise of , , workplace and “cultural experiences” to “ensure a safe and animated environment throughout the day and night”;.
A submitted by the Bristol Alliance Partnership proposed to replace the shops’ first floor areas “with a space that will suit new, flexible, future-proof uses, such as flexible workspaces and healthcare”;.
The plan also emphasises the “preservation of architectural heritage, fostering diversity, happiness and resilience, and enhancing the quality of life through sustainable urban development”;.
Apple's current location will soon be “transformed into a vibrant public realm environment, with ‘urban rooms' for “rest, play and reflection”;.
The retrofitting of the buildings is a part of this“increasing vibrancy and variety to the activity on the street”;.
Planners hope Quakers Square will become a “a welcoming, intergenerational public space at the heart of Quakers Friars.
Serving as a “focal point for the community and enriching the city centre with diverse event experiences, while honouring the building’s heritage setting”;.
But aren't so sure.
One person said: “No more reason ever to go there after that. How they have mismanaged that place.”
Followed by a second: “The site is so badly managed long term. Bristol is really bad at good long term planning, sadly.”
Meanwhile a third said: “I don't understand what they are trying to achieve. It will never be a going out area will it.”
Then a fourth said: “Looks like had a good work out there...”
Followed by a fifth: “Who's getting a back hander on this work that doesn't need to happen?”
Apple has confirmed it'll close its Bristol branch on August 9 due to the redevelopment plans.
A spokesperson said: “Due to the redevelopment plans at Cabot Circus Shopping Centre, which include the closure of the section where our store is located, will close on August 9, 2025.
“We’ve loved serving the Bristol community for over 15 years, and our valued team members will continue their roles at Apple.”;
Cabot Circus has also responded, confirming Apple's closure while outlining its “exciting plans”.
A spokesperson added: “We have exciting plans for Quakers Friars, combining investment in more green spaces and a vibrant cultural quarter alongside investment in the surrounding retail and commercial buildings.
“Meanwhile, our focus is on a very busy year at Cabot Circus, with M&S launching a new flagship store and ODEON opening a major new complex.
“Together with recent leisure and retailer openings, and alongside our proud ongoing support for community and arts events, we’re delivering on our plans to make the area a buzzing destination day and night in the heart of Bristol.”;
