Plans for a huge new development of offices, homes and shops in Bath are available to the public online for the first time.
Bath and North East Somerset (BANES) council, which owns the Avon Street Car Park site, is inviting people to take part in a virtual consultation on the scheme.
The Bath Quays North development is a joint venture between the local authority and financial services firm Legal & General, and property company Bell Hammer.
Under the plans, the site will be transformed into a mixed-used scheme including 176,292 sq ft of office space, 92 new homes, retail units, a hotel and pedestrian and cycle routes.
There are also plans for a new promenade that will have riverside restaurants, landscaped public spaces and a basement car park.
Outline planning permission for the development was granted by BANES Council in 2019.
Alexandra Brown, senior development manager at Legal & General Capital said, “It’s essential that even during this period of economic uncertainty, institutions continue to invest in Britain’s towns and cities, driving economic growth and creating jobs for local people.
She added: “Whilst current circumstances prevent us from holding a physical exhibition, the details of our proposals will be readily available to all. We would like to hear the views of the people of Bath, so please visit the Bath Quays North website and leave your feedback.”
'Once in a generation scheme'
Ian Bell, executive director of Bath Chamber of Commerce, said the new development would be a “game changer” for the local economy, and would allow existing businesses to grow and attract inward investment and jobs.
The consultation is being held online because of the coronavirus pandemic and will close on June 22, 2020.
Tim Ball, cabinet member of housing, development and economic development at BANES, said: “This is another piece of the jigsaw in revitalising the centre of Bath enhancing the offer that Bath has across the region and further afield.”
Patrick Davis, director of Bell Hammer added: “To have the chance to develop on such a scale in Bath occurs once in a generation.
“The size and quality of the office element will enable local companies to grow as well as attract regional, national and international occupiers for whom Bath has never previously been an option, due to the lack of suitable space.”
To take part in the consultation and fill in an online feedback form, visit www.bathquaysnorth.com. People unable to access the consultation materials online can request a hard copy by calling 01225 423400.
