Charity fears for future if plans for new HQ are thrown out
Mercy In Action fears its future could be in jeopardy should its planning application not receive support from Bath and North East Somerset Council.
The charity, based at the Hollis Building on Lower Bristol Road, offers a range of services, including providing food and clothing to families in need, and they are urging people to get behind its bid to build a new HQ with student accommodation above.
Since March the team say they have seen unprecedented demand for services as the effects of lockdown and the subsequent economic downturn have taken hold.
Over the past few months the charity has provided fresh food, as well as clothing and other essential supplies, to more than 2,500 local individuals, including up to 125 households per week during the height of the first lockdown.
It is now hoping that a planning application due for consideration by B&NES Council will allow the creation of a new headquarters, including offices, operations and storage space, on the site of the Hollis Building, which will help the charity sustain its work, especially in these challenging times.
Bath-based developer Longacre with partner Watkin Property Ventures submitted the planning application earlier this year. It includes the demolition of the existing warehouse building to facilitate the creation of new premises for Mercy In Action alongside student accommodation on the upper floors.
John Todd, for Mercy In Action, said: “Working with Longacre there is the opportunity for our charity to upgrade our facilities and space, helping to keep us running efficiently and smoothly. There is huge demand for the services we provide, helping some of the most vulnerable members of society. We work in a variety of ways and want to be here for future generations, providing support and assistance through difficult times. “The proposals, if approved, will safeguard our services for many years to come as we work as an ally to B&NES Council helping to ensure local families in the area have access to support should they need it. We want to ensure that no family falls through the cracks.”