FCBS Proposes 272-Home Co-Living Development in Bath

The city of Bath is set to witness a significant transformation with the proposal for a 272-home co-living development by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios (FCBS). The scheme aims to revitalize a neglected site on the banks of the River Avon in the Bath Western Riverside regeneration area.

Project Overview

Situated at the intersection of Lower Bristol Road and Windsor Bridge, the project will take place on a former industrial site known as the Victoria Park Business Centre. This area is part of a broader initiative by the Bath and North East Somerset Council to develop over 2,000 homes in the riverside regeneration zone.

Collaborative Efforts

FCBS, based in Bath, has collaborated with Blue Coast Capital and co-living specialists VervLife to bring this ambitious project to life. It represents the first entirely co-living development in Bath, marking a noteworthy stride toward modern urban living.

Design and Landscape Features

• Four buildings of co-living studios
• A green buffer zone between the river and buildings
• Garden courtyards and communal growing spaces for residents
• A new pedestrian and cycle route connecting to the towpath

Architect Nathan Fairbrother has emphasized the importance of the proposal as a “critical gateway” into the city. The design draws inspiration from the site’s industrial history while enhancing the connection between the urban environment and the natural landscape.

Transforming the Urban Landscape

Blue Coast Capital’s UK real estate managing director, John Stacey, noted that this development will convert an underutilized brownfield site into a vibrant neighborhood. He highlighted the dual focus on creating exemplary co-living accommodations and significant enhancements to public spaces.

Project Timeline and Planning

The Bath Western Riverside regeneration initiative has been in planning since 2010. A concurrent development, designed by Grimshaw, featuring 611 mixed-tenure residential units commenced in the previous year near the FCBS project site. The formal planning application for the co-living development was submitted to the Bath and North East Somerset Council on December 12.

Project Team

The proposed co-living development by FCBS marks a crucial step in Bath’s ongoing urban renewal efforts, combining innovative design with community-focused living solutions.