Significant planning applications are underway in Bath and North East Somerset and North Somerset, including the removal of fire-risk cladding from apartments next to Clevedon Pier and the expansion of an 850-year-old almshouse in Bath.
Each week, these neighboring councils process hundreds of planning applications. While most decisions are made by council planning officers, the most notable or controversial proposals are reviewed by elected councillors on planning committees. These should base their verdicts on planning policies rather than politics, though the latter occasionally influences outcomes.
One notable proposal involves removing flammable cladding from the Royal Pier Hotel flats in Clevedon. Originally a pub built in 1869 for paddle steamer passengers, the Grade II listed building suffered a fire in 2003 before being converted into 17 flats with modern extensions in 2016. A fire risk assessment under new post-Grenfell legislation identified the external walls as posing an unacceptable risk of fire spread.
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The application to North Somerset Council seeks to remove the existing combustible cladding and replace it with non-combustible materials that match the building’s current aesthetic. These changes are limited to the modern additions on the rear and side elevations, with no alterations proposed to the historic fabric except the addition of cavity barriers at vulnerable joints.
In Bath, St John’s Hospital—a foundation with origins dating back to 1174—is applying to convert two Grade II listed Georgian townhouses in its Chapel Court complex from offices into five new almshouse apartments. The foundation, which currently provides 94 affordable homes for those over 65, aims to repurpose the office space to better serve the community.
The development includes installing a vacuum-powered cylindrical glass lift designed to minimize impact on the historic structures and restoring the rear façade by removing an outdated office tower. According to the application, these improvements will revitalize the site, support biodiversity, and deliver tangible public benefits.
Additional planning proposals include Nailsea Town Council’s request to install accessible toilets using shipping containers at Nailsea United Football Club’s grounds, enhancing inclusivity for players and spectators. Meanwhile, a stable block near Compton Martin is proposed to be converted into a two-bedroom self-build home while retaining adjoining stables for horses, reflecting an ongoing rural housing initiative.
All applications are open for public inspection and comment on the respective council websites.