City Of Bath College, Avon Street

The proposal is situated within the car park adjacent to Bath College between Corn Street and St James Parade. It is located within the core of the Bath conservation area and World Heritage site; whilst this area is categorised by its high density of new development including college buildings on Milk Street and the post-war redevelopment of Westgate buildings, the concentration of Grade II Georgian terraces adjacent to the proposed site of development consequently demands this application’s careful consideration as to what potential harm this scheme might cause.

BPT does not object to the principle of the scheme, and appreciates the necessity for a new transformer, and consequently additional space in which it can be housed. We feel it appropriate that all the transformers be located together to minimise the potential visual impact their installation will have on the site’s surrounding context.

However, the Trust would like to emphasise the potential visibility of the proposed extension from Corn Street; we would recommend that this application further considers any potential adverse impacts this will have on the Bath conservation area and World Heritage site, and consequently how this might be best mitigated. BPT has some concerns regarding the lack of demonstrated contextual understanding such as the close proximity of numerous Grade II buildings including 6-18 St. James Parade, The Bath Tap, and the Mission Theatre.

In accordance with section 16 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, this proposal constitutes a form of visual impact and potential harm to the historic landscape that requires detailed consideration against any potential benefit.

Therefore, we would require that a clear understanding of the site’s historic context and visual impact is demonstrated, against which the proposed benefit of the scheme can be measured. We would also emphasise the importance of the proposed extension utilising a like-for-like design in roof height, colour, design, and materials in order to blend effectively with the existing structure and therefore lessen any aesthetic conflict with the surrounding streetscape.