Former Bath gasworks could be transformed into homes

650 homes could be built as part of the Bath Western Riverside Project

A former gas works could be transformed into a housing development
Author: Stephen Sumner for Local Democracy Reporting Service / James DiamondPublished 11th Feb 2022

Another 650 homes could be built at a former gasworks site in Bath to add to the city’s “unique appeal”.

In the first phase of the Bath Western Riverside project, Crest Nicholson has delivered some 800 homes, and now the Berkeley Group and National Grid, in a joint venture called St William, are drawing up plans for their land.

The site is allocated for a high-density urban development of 1,500 new homes, although an update to Bath and North East Somerset Council’s Local Plan could increase that to 1,750.

The St William land has the capacity for some 625 to 675 new homes alongside public open space, non-residential uses, a sustainable transport route and areas dedicated to ecology.

An adjoining piece of land is owned by the council, where a temporary recycling centre is to set to be built as an interim facility when Midland Road shuts for redevelopment.

St William’s consultation website says: “Our vision for Bath Western Riverside is to transform a redundant former gasworks into an inviting new neighbourhood which adds to the unique appeal of the city.

“Our proposals will mediate between the Georgian character of Bath and the industrial heritage of the Western Riverside Quarter, adopting a contextual but transformative approach.

“A variety of new mixed tenure homes, non-residential uses and landscaped spaces will be provided, each with sustainability, community and wellness at their heart.

“Above all, we will provide an environment which positively responds to the present challenges facing Bath including the climate emergency and housing crisis.”

The proposals will be on display in the foyer of Green Park Station from noon until 4pm on February 23 and 24, and from 10am until 4pm on February 26.

Further engagement will take place before a planning application is submitted to the council later this year.

For more information, click here.

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