Controversy Surrounds Proposed Student Flats in Bath

Proposed plans for additional student flats in Bath have sparked controversy for conflicting with council policies.

Regen Developments aims to repurpose a disused office block on the outskirts of the city into 12 student flats, providing a total of 54 beds. Additionally, they have applied to build four more flats on the rooftop of Minerva House on the Lower Bristol Road. In their submission to the Bath and North East Somerset Council, the developers highlighted the building’s good condition and convenient location in proximity to the university and local bus routes, offering students easy access to education and town center amenities without the need for a private vehicle.

Expressing opposition to the plans, Sarah Moore, the representative for Twerton on the council, criticized the lack of evidence demonstrating the necessity for additional student accommodation. Moore emphasized that existing student blocks are not fully occupied, and there are similar developments in other parts of the city without clear justification for their requirement.

Moore also cited the conflict with council policy, which prohibits new purpose-built student accommodation outside of a university campus unless the applicant collaborates with an educational institution.

The proposal has opened for public viewing and comments.