Today, January 21, Avon and Somerset Police have begun removing an extensive cannabis farm hidden inside a derelict hotel on Monmouth Place in Bath. Approximately 700 suspected cannabis plants were discovered growing within the disused building, prompting a police cordon around the site.
The situation came to light last week when the building’s owner raised concerns after being unable to access the former hotel. Since then, the property has remained under police guard while utility companies worked to secure the premises.
Officers are currently on site removing the plants and associated growing equipment as part of an ongoing investigation. Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Scott Hill described the operation as a significant step in combating drug activity in Bath and North East Somerset.
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“This disruption of a cannabis growing operation targets the availability of illegal drugs in our communities,” Hill said. “Our local police teams are collaborating closely with residents to gather intelligence and prevent these harmful criminal activities.”
He also highlighted the dangers posed by such illegal farms: “Cannabis cultivation often involves illegal use of electricity, which significantly increases the risk of fire, in addition to the crime and anti-social behaviour linked to drug supply.”
Eyewitnesses at the scene reported seeing about four individuals in protective white suits and masks entering the building, one carrying a grey tube, as officers worked to clear the site.