University of Bath Proposes 900-Unit Student Housing with City’s First Padel Courts

The University of Bath has unveiled ambitious plans to develop nearly 1,000 student flats at its Claverton Down campus, marking a significant expansion in student housing and potentially introducing Bath’s first padel courts.

The proposal features eight new residential blocks designed to accommodate 926 students, aiming to relieve the pressure on the local housing market by reducing demand for private student rentals. The planning application is scheduled for review by Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning committee on April 15.

Located on existing sports pitches east of the campus, the plan involves constructing over two current tennis courts. In exchange, the university has committed to installing two padel courts, making Bath a pioneer in offering this fast-growing racquet sport locally. Previous efforts to establish padel courts in Bath at Odd Down Sports Ground and Lansdown Tennis Club were rejected due to noise concerns perceived as disruptive to neighboring residents.

However, council planning officers have highlighted a different context in this campus location, noting, “A degree of noise and disturbance is to be expected for future students given their location on campus.” They recommend granting permission, emphasizing the university’s role in the district and the importance of supporting its sustainable growth.

The report further notes that the new development will contribute positively to the local economy through increased student spending and university employment opportunities. Moreover, the 926 new student rooms could significantly alleviate housing pressure by replacing the need for approximately 386 individual student houses throughout the city.

This initiative aligns with recent council concerns about the conversion of family homes into houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), which the council sought to restrict last year to protect family housing stock.

The planning committee will convene at 10 a.m. on April 15 in Bath Guildhall’s council chamber to decide on this pivotal proposal.