Bath and North East Somerset and North Somerset are buzzing with interesting planning applications, ranging from electric bus infrastructure to residential and commercial projects. One of the major developments is the electrification of Bath’s buses, with Weston Island bus depot set to undergo significant upgrades to accommodate electric buses. A planning application submitted by First Bus seeks permission to install electric bus charging infrastructure, including floor mounted electric chargers, steel gantries, and electricity substations. This move aligns with the bus company’s ambitious plan to introduce 160 zero-emission buses, with 258 expected to be operational in Bath and Bristol by next summer.
In a North Somerset village, a resident has applied for permission to construct a new two-storey, four-bedroom house in their garden. Emphasizing the efficient use of underutilized garden space, the proposal aims to preserve the existing residents' amenity and avoid overlooking or overshadowing neighboring properties. Similarly, a vacant estate agents in Portishead may be transformed into a micropub, providing a community space for socializing and specializing in local cask ale.
Moreover, the University of Bath is contemplating the construction of eight low carbon blocks of student accommodation at its Claverham Down campus. With plans to house 964 students and attain “passivhaus” certification for high energy efficiency, the university has initiated a public consultation to gather feedback on the proposed development.
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These diverse planning applications showcase the dynamic landscape of urban development and infrastructure improvements in Somerset.