New Plans Unveiled for 220 Homes at Bath Press Site

Plans are in motion for the development of 220 homes on the historic Bath Press site located on Lower Bristol Road in Bath. Developer City & Country acquired the site last year and has now submitted a new planning application to enhance what was previously proposed for the western half of the site.

The updated application seeks to replace earlier plans that included traditional terraces and blocks of flats. Instead, City & Country envisions a series of contemporary “mansion houses” that will feature varied heights and architectural details. The goal is to create a visually appealing and dynamic frontage along both Lower Bristol Road and Brook Road.

The proposal outlines the construction of six Superman shield-shaped blocks surrounding two courtyards, which are designed to maximize solar efficiency. A separate terrace of affordable housing will be positioned alongside Brook Road. These green amenity spaces aim to foster social interaction and enhance the well-being of residents through high-quality communal areas.

Historical Significance of the Bath Press Site

The Bath Press site carries a rich historical legacy dating back to 1889, when Sir Isaac Pitman established a phonetic institute there. The site later evolved into Pitman Press and subsequently Bath Press. The building’s iconic art deco facade was constructed over multiple phases, concluding in 1926. After ceasing operations in 2007, the Bath Press was demolished in 2017, leaving only the facade and chimney intact.

The redevelopment of this site marks a significant change in the landscape of the area. Currently, Lower Bristol Road is undergoing rapid transformation, with new student accommodation and the Bath Western Riverside development also underway nearby. The new planning application highlights the intention to create a sensitive transition between emerging developments along Lower Bristol Road and the established residential character of Oldfield Park to the south.

City & Country’s vision for the Bath Press West redevelopment is a response to the need for modern housing while respecting the site’s historical context. As Bath continues to evolve, this project serves as an important chapter in its ongoing development, promising not only to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area but also to provide much-needed housing options for residents.