Plans to build more than 200 “mansion houses” on the historic Bath Press site are set to be decided by councillors today. The site, one of Bath’s largest brownfield locations, has been the focus of redevelopment since City & Country purchased it and began construction last year behind the preserved iconic facade on the eastern side.
Recently, the developer submitted revised plans for the western side of the site, proposing a significantly larger number of homes than originally planned. The new scheme includes three large blocks along Lower Bristol Road, three further blocks behind them, and a separate terrace of townhouses along Brook Road. In total, the proposal envisions 220 homes on the western half of the site-more than double the 103 homes in the initial plans.
City & Country described the development as a “series of contemporary mansion houses, varying in height and architectural detailing, to create a dynamic and visually engaging frontage along Lower Bristol Road and Brook Road.” They stated that the design “acts as a sensitive transition between emerging developments along Lower Bristol Road and the established residential character of Oldfield Park to the south.”
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However, some local residents have expressed strong objections. Corrie Wright-Schrijver, among 17 people to formally oppose the plans, warned the large blocks differ greatly from the original concept and would constitute a “terribly oppressive imposition” for those living on Southview Road. Sue Grimsdell added concerns about the development altering one of Bath’s key arterial routes, warning it risks “losing its identity completely.”
Despite these objections, Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning officers recommend approval, highlighting the importance of increasing housing density and contributing substantially to housing supply on this sustainable brownfield site.
If approved, the Bath Press development will include a total of 366 homes across the entire site. The historic Bath Press, founded by Sir Isaac Pitman-the inventor of Pitman’s Shorthand-originally printed shorthand dictionaries and was once a prominent local employer. Its distinctive art deco facade, completed in phases until 1926, remains the sole surviving structure after the main building was demolished in 2017 following the Press’s closure in 2007.
The council’s planning committee will review the proposals at a meeting today, Wednesday 2 September, at 10am in Bath Guildhall.