In Bath and North East Somerset and North Somerset, notable planning proposals have recently emerged, focusing on enhancing fire safety and expanding community housing. These applications reflect ongoing efforts to improve local living conditions and preserve historic sites.
One prominent proposal involves removing flammable cladding from a block of apartments adjacent to Clevedon Pier. The Royal Pier Hotel, a Grade II listed building originally constructed in 1869 and converted into flats in 2016, has been identified as posing an unacceptable fire risk due to combustible cladding materials. Following new regulations introduced after the Grenfell Tower tragedy, a fire risk assessment recommended replacing the existing cladding with a non-combustible system. The planned upgrade will maintain the building’s aesthetic integrity, focusing primarily on modern extensions at the rear and side elevations, without altering the historic fabric except for adding cavity barriers for fire safety.
In Bath, the 850-year-old St John’s almshouse, a historic foundation providing affordable housing for those over 65, seeks to expand its accommodation. The foundation has submitted a planning application to convert two Grade II listed Georgian townhouses, formerly used as offices, into five new almshouse apartments. To preserve the historic character, the project includes installing a vacuum-powered cylindrical glass lift with minimal impact and restoring parts of the building no longer in office use. This redevelopment aims to enhance the site’s viability, contribute to green space preservation, and deliver public benefit through additional affordable housing.
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Other noteworthy applications include plans by Nailsea Town Council to install accessible toilet facilities via shipping containers at Nailsea United Football Club’s grounds, enhancing inclusivity for players and spectators. Additionally, a planning request has been made to transform a stable block near Compton Martin into a two-bedroom self-build home, retaining a smaller stable section for existing horses and farming activities.
These diverse proposals highlight local councils’ commitment to balancing heritage preservation, community needs, and safety improvements. Residents and interested parties can view and comment on these plans through the respective council websites.