Developer bids to build bungalows in field

New homes could be built on a field in Bath which used to be a market garden.

Five houses have been proposed at Victoria Gardens, off Bannerdown Drive, in Batheaston. The plot has been home to only one house and a “dilapidated” barn.

Charlcombe Homes Ltd wants to build bungalows on the site, which is not in the B&NES greenbelt or the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The proposal follows one made in 2018 for “renovation of existing outbuilding with the erection of single-storey side extensions and two-storey rear extension to form ancillary building”, which was later withdrawn.

B&NES Council expects to decide on the new application by February 9, 2022, and you can comment on it until January 9.

A design and access statement submitted by architect Richard Wagstaffe said the developer hoped older people would buy up the new homes.

He wrote: “This small infill development will provide much needed ‘windfall’ housing stock in an established residential area, on a site with no significant planning policy or other constraints. The three-bedroom single storey house type addresses an identified need in Bath for the older and less able sectors of the population, in a manner which is fully in keeping with the character of the area.”

He described how the homes would be built in a “lodge” style, with three bedrooms and a garage each.

“The accommodation layout is designed to suit the intended market where large kitchen/dining/living rooms addressing the garden are desired, but with a relatively small “snug” sitting room. Main bedrooms need to be a good size with generous ensuites.”