Three Major Planning Applications Propose Over 500 New Homes for Bath Area

The Bath area is poised for significant change, with over 500 new homes proposed through three substantial planning applications submitted within a single week. These developments reflect the ongoing pressure on Bath and North East Somerset Council to meet increased government housing targets.

The applications signal a swift move by developers ahead of the council’s updated local plan, which has sparked debate regarding the potential impact on Bath’s UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

One proposal by Bathford Partners aims to convert the historic Grosvenor House office building into 103 student flats. Located just off Lower Bristol Road, the building dates back to 1876 and has evolved from a railway goods shed to a 1990s office space. Despite concerns from local councillors and the council’s economic development team about loss of office jobs and the risk of creating a “student campus by stealth,” developers highlight low current office occupancy.

In the village of Timsbury, Waddeton Park Ltd has applied to develop 170 homes on Emlett Field, including a mix of one to four-bedroom houses and apartments, with 40% designated as affordable housing. The developers promise generous public open spaces integrated sensitively into the local environment. However, strong opposition has emerged from residents concerned about local infrastructure and capacity.

The largest of the proposals comes from BC Bath Ltd, which plans a “co-living” development featuring 272 rooms in four buildings by Windsor Bridge on Upper Bristol Road. Unlike traditional housing, this development emphasizes shared living spaces such as communal kitchens, lounges, a gym, co-working areas, and even a cinema/events space, promoting a vibrant community lifestyle.

As these major projects move through the planning process, the local council must balance the city’s growth demands with concerns over heritage, community impact, and infrastructure capacity.