Fire-risk Cladding Removal and Historic Almshouse Expansion Among Key Planning Proposals in Bath and North Somerset

In Bath and North East Somerset and North Somerset, a variety of planning applications continue to shape the region’s future. Among the most notable proposals are plans to remove flammable cladding from apartments in Clevedon and an expansion of an 850-year-old almshouse in Bath.

One of the prominent applications involves the Royal Pier Hotel in Clevedon, a Grade II listed building adjacent to the iconic Clevedon Pier. Originally built in 1869 as a hotel serving paddle steamer passengers, the building was converted into flats in 2016 after a devastating fire in 2003. New legislation, enacted following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, has mandated the removal of combustible cladding on the modern extensions of the building due to an identified risk of external fire spread. The planned works will replace the existing cladding with a non-combustible system that matches the current appearance without altering the historic fabric of the original structure, except for adding fire barriers where necessary.

In Bath’s city center, St John’s Hospital—founded in 1174 and still active as St John’s Foundation—has submitted plans to convert two Georgian townhouses in its Chapel Court facility into five almshouse apartments. These buildings, formerly used as offices, are considered inadequate for modern office needs, prompting their repurposing to provide affordable housing for people aged over 65. To preserve the historic nature of the buildings, a vacuum-powered cylindrical glass lift is proposed to ensure accessibility with minimal impact on the structure. The project will also restore the rear facade and enhance the surrounding green space, contributing to biodiversity and offering significant public benefits.

Additional proposals include Nailsea Town Council’s plan to install shipping containers equipped with accessible toilets and a new patio area at the Nailsea United Football Club grounds, aiming to improve inclusivity and player facilities. Furthermore, a stable block near Compton Martin has been proposed for conversion into a two-bedroom self-build home, allowing the owner to continue housing livestock on the property.

These applications reflect ongoing efforts to balance heritage preservation, safety regulations, and community needs in the region. All plans are open for public inspection on the respective council websites, with some to be reviewed by elected planning committees.