Architecturally appropriate

The key points relating to design and heritage were that any redevelopment should make efforts to:

• Retain and reflect Bath’s heritage and architecture

• Ensure the height of the development does not exceed existing buildings

• Use traditional building materials wherever possible

St James’s Investments and Tesco are keen to propose a sensitive and architecturally- appropriate redevelopment.

Retaining and utilising the facade

Although the Bath Press building is not listed, the plans incorporate key existing features of the site, retaining and utilising the façade and the landmark chimney to reflect the site’s heritage. It is proposed to incorporate public art into the façade design to reflect the site’s history as a printing press and enhance its new function. This would be a key visual feature as well as act as a safety barrier between public space and the Lower Bristol Road.

In terms of building materials, the designs will incorporate Bath stone as well as reconstituted stone and metalwork as an ‘accent’ material.

A new public square

A new public square is screened from the noisy and busy Lower Bristol Road.

At the same level as the original factory floor the square optimally integrates with the retained facade. Ramps and steps manage the change in level from the surrounding pavements reflecting the characteristic level changes found in and around Bath.

The majority of the development is 2 storeys tall, reflecting the height of the residential terrace to the south of the site. Where the building rises to 3 storeys the top level is expressed differently in order that the development fits in its context.