Bath pub The Bell warns flats plan could threaten its future

The Bell Inn, on Walcot Street in Bath, fears future residents could make noise complaints, potentially placing restrictions on its long-established programme of live music and events.

The proposals would demolish the neighbouring former Bath Aqua Glass workshop at 105-107 Walcot Street and replace it with a mixed-use building.

It would contain a commercial unit and nine flats.

The former Bath Aqua Glass building would be demolished under the plans (Image: AGM Planning Consultants)

In a Facebook post, The Bell said: "If you’re a Bell member, local resident, musician, customer or simply value independent live music in Bath this could affect you.

"A planning application has been submitted for 9 new flats directly next door to The Bell.

"As a long-established live music venue, we’re concerned that putting new homes immediately next door could lead to future noise complaints and restrictions on the music and events that have been part of The Bell, and Walcot Street, for decades."

The plans show a commercial unit with nine flats above (Image: AGM Planning Consultants)

The application, submitted by Bath-based Longacre Estates, is awaiting a decision from Bath and North East Somerset Council.

The proposed flats would comprise seven one-bedroom and two two-bedroom homes.

The development would have around 155 square metres of commercial space on its ground floor.

Documents acknowledge The Bell as an established live music venue and say a noise assessment monitored live music events there.

Acoustic glazing and mechanical ventilation are proposed so residents would not need open windows during noisier periods.

The proposed development would stand immediately beside The Bell (Image: AGM Planning Consultants)

The planning statement says: "The Inacoustic assessment confirms that acceptable internal acoustic conditions can be achieved through the proposed glazing, mechanical ventilation and associated mitigation measures.

"These measures would allow suitable internal conditions to be maintained without relying on open windows during noisier periods, thereby ensuring compatibility with the established operation of The Bell Inn and other surrounding commercial uses."

It argues the development would deliver new homes on an accessible brownfield site while retaining commercial activity at street level.

The Bell said its board was taking advice and would publish a model objection before comments close on October 8.

A public meeting will also be held at the pub at 7pm on September 28.

The Grade II-listed former coaching inn was bought by 536 regulars, supporters and staff through a community buyout in 2013.

Live music remains central to the venue, with regular bands and open-mic events.