REGENERATING BATH
BATH DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
With Spring in full swing, it’ s the perfect time to think about regrowth, so we’ re taking a look at some of the regeneration and development projects set to shape the future of Bath over the coming years. From Bath Rugby’ s Stadium for Bath ambitions to developments at Bath Quays, Windsor Bridge, and the University of Bath, here’ s a rundown of the projects on the horizon.
Bath Rugby | Stadium for Bath Bath Rugby submitted its amended planning application for a new 18,000-capacity stadium in January.
The amended application reflects feedback from the public, key stakeholders and Bath & North East Somerset Council. The new design includes changes such as lowering the heights of the West and East Stands.
Tarquin McDonald, Chief Executive of Bath Rugby, said,“ The amended submission showcases an exciting vision for the future, with significant public benefits that will positively contribute to the entire community. We are committed to delivering a stadium that not only meets the needs of our fans but also respects the rich heritage of Bath.
“ The stadium redevelopment will contribute enormously to Bath’ s business community and economic vitality with increased visitor numbers to the city centre benefitting local businesses; an enhanced city offer through new meeting, working and conference and events spaces; and through a focus on provenance and buying local.
“ We are excited by the significant and lasting value the stadium redevelopment can deliver for the Bath business community.”
According to Allison Herbert, Chief Executive of Bath Business Improvement District( BID), it is hoped the new stadium will enhance the riverside area and create new spaces for activities and events, diversifying the city’ s offerings. Rather than attracting more visitors during peak times, the goal is to boost the economy during quieter periods, helping businesses all year-round.
The project aligns with the BID’ s vision of a connected city, with a centrally located sporting facility offering opportunities for visitors, business professionals and residents.
Allison Herbert said,“ Generally, businesses are supportive of the existence of the Rugby club in the city centre, either as supporters themselves or as beneficiaries from a shared customer base.
“ Additional events on the space would create an opportunity for improved footfall, which could be targeted to quieter times or days in the city’ s calendar, which is a welcome opportunity for the hospitality sector in particular to spread their seasonal revenue outside of the main Christmas and summer holiday periods.
“ The application would secure the future of live rugby in the city and as such would provide some much-needed reassurance that Bath Rugby will not be lost to Bath.
“ A secure long-term future for the rugby club then creates many opportunities. It is important from a place management perspective to have a diversity of reasons to visit a place.
Bath is fortunate to have green spaces, heritage assets which can be enjoyed without paying as well as a great range of visitor attractions, excellent shopping and restaurants which far outperform a city of its size. A world class sporting venue is a crucial part of the landscape for a city whose historic reputation is built on rest and relaxation.”
University of Bath | student accommodation The University of Bath is in the early stages of designing plans for new student accommodation at Claverton Down campus. The University’ s Masterplan includes increased provision of on-campus student accommodation to the east of the campus site.
Work is now underway on a pre-application process involving consultations with B & NES Council.
Once the pre-application process is complete, a stakeholder consultation will be held to gather views on the emerging proposals. A full planning application will then be submitted later in 2025.
The University says that it understands a major project like this will be of keen interest to many people, both within and beyond the University community, and that it will endeavour to keep all stakeholders informed throughout.
24 www. tbebathandsomerset. co. uk