77-apartment scheme proposed for Bath city centre

A scheme to build to 77 apartments in Bath city centre has been brought forward by developer Kosy Living.

It aims to be Bath’s first co-living scheme and claims “to help address its housing need, and in particular help it retain its graduates after leaving full-time education to the economic and social benefit of the city”.

The scheme was brought forward last year as a five-storey, 100-bed development, but Bath and North East Somerset Council had warned it would lead to “less than substantial harm” to its World Heritage Site assets.

The new proposal has reduced the number of apartments by one-quarter, through the loss of a floor, and changed the design to include gable ends with the façade materials changed from buff brick to Bath Stone.

The four-storey residential development on Wells Road would be studio apartments. There would also be two commercial units on the ground floor.

The site is currently home to a wine retailer and charity in light industrial units.

The developer said: “Kosy have a vision to deliver a genuine pioneering and sustainable co-living and co-working place at Wells Road, being the first of its kind in Bath.

“A concept that is founded on the creation of a high quality, socially inclusive and intergenerational community.

“Kosy believes that being a sustainable and genuine community requires a critical mass of residents, workers and community users that can create an environment of self-perpetuating social exchange, sharing and support – a neighbourhood within a neighbourhood.”

The Kosy flats would mostly be 268 sq ft and designed to have a fold-down bed, moveable sfa and kitchenette in one room, with a separate bathroom.

Residents would have access to common areas, including three kitchen-dining rooms, co-working space, a gym, and rooftop terrace.

85 bicycle parking spaces would be included, and only seven car parking spaces.