HUB and Bridges Fund Management have submitted plans for a new mixed-use development in Bath on the site of the former Homebase, Pines Way. Currently derelict brownfield land, the transformative plans would deliver circa 275 next generation build-to-rent homes and 180 shared living homes, alongside extensive shared amenity.
The plans incorporate over 10,000 sq ft of flexible commercial and amenity space, which would support the local economy and contribute to the vibrancy of the Bath Western Riverside regeneration quarter. The masterplan for the prime site aims to create an attractive and liveable riverside community within a 15-minute walk of Bath city centre’s historic landmarks and the train station.
HUB and Bridges’s plans were inspired by extensive community engagement with over 1,000 local people spoken with across four events. Drawing on that community input, a vision for Pines Way emerged which harnesses the spirit of the area and draws on its industrial past. The proposed development improves public access to the riverside and includes a provision of affordable homes that is yet to be determined, as well as 3-bedroom homes well-suited for families.
Designed by JTP Architects, the community-focused scheme aims to meet high environmental standards. Targeting BREEAM Excellent for the commercial space and 4* Home Quality Mark, a fabric first approach has been applied to minimise the building energy consumption and associated carbon emissions. In terms of energy performance, all homes will achieve at least EPC B, with the Shared Living achieving EPC A. Instead of fossil fuels, the development will use high efficiency air source heat pumps, allowing the development to become net zero operational carbon as the national grid decarbonises.
The design of the scheme would deliver biodiversity net gain of 30%, far greater than policy requirements. Extensive green spaces, including communal gardens and biodiverse landscaping, would provide residents and the wider community with opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities, supporting both social and environmental wellbeing.
Plans also include new pedestrian and cycle routes connecting Bath Western Riverside with the historic city centre, as well as generous cycle storage alongside a mobility hub.
The Pines Way development adds to HUB’s growing pipeline of 8,800 homes completed or under development.
Victoria Manston, Development Director at HUB, said:
“Pines Way is a fundamental component of Bath Western Riverside’s wider regeneration. The scheme has the opportunity to transform a vacant brownfield site into a thriving new neighbourhood – delivering new commercial space alongside high quality homes for the city’s growing community of workers.
“Bath is hailed globally for its historic design; we have worked alongside Bath & North East Somerset Council, local stakeholders, and heritage advisors to ensure the project complements the area’s UNESCO World Heritage status.
“We have seen firsthand how the Build to Rent and shared living models catalyse regeneration; we are confident this scheme will enrich this historic city whilst addressing the region’s recently doubled housing delivery target.”
Adam Amijee, Investment Manager at Bridges Fund Management, said:
“Our proposed transformation of this derelict site on Pines Way will provide much-needed high-quality new homes for Bath’s growing population, while also helping to revitalise this attractive riverside area. From our experience of building thousands of new homes across the UK, we understand how to create developments that meet local needs while also minimising environmental impact, through reduced embodied and operational carbon emissions. We believe this development can be a real asset to the city and the local community.”
Nigel Bidwell, Partner at JTP, said:
“It’s a privilege to design in Bath and the Pines Way proposal seeks to balance the sensitivities of this special city with the exciting and important opportunity of contributing to its newest quarter at Bath Western Riverside.
“The design strives to form connections; in providing new greened routes to the city centre but also in its architecture, drawing from the industrial heritage of the site and its river valley setting and this has been further enriched through an engaging and rewarding process with local people.
“Bath’s need for housing is increasingly falling into focus and JTP has been delighted to work with the team at HUB and Bridges Fund Management to bring forward this important scheme for the city.”
