Bath & North East Somerset Council and the University of Bath have announced a new partnership to develop the Bath Quays North site, following the expiration of the previous development agreement with L&G. The two organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on a vision for the future of this prime riverfront location in the heart of Bath.

A large tree in the middle of a circular road

The 2.2-hectare brownfield site, situated within the Bath City Riverside Enterprise Zone, will be the focus of joint efforts to stimulate economic activity through new spaces for research, innovation, and enterprise. The existing outline planning permission for Bath Quays North will serve as the foundation for these discussions.

Councillor Paul Roper, Cabinet Member for Economic and Cultural Sustainable Development, emphasised the project’s importance, stating, “The development of the Bath Quays sites – both South and North – is a key aspect of delivering our economic strategy for this authority. With Bath Quays South almost fully let and securing hundreds of jobs, our focus now shifts to Bath Quays North. This agreement marks a significant milestone for the city and University, following the collaboration which resulted in the signing of our Civic Agreement.”

The collaboration will be a major topic at upcoming investment events in Bath, where industry professionals will explore the potential economic impact of this regeneration project. Such events are crucial for understanding how to win construction contracts and leverage development opportunities in the region.

Professor Ian White, President & Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bath, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “This exciting opportunity could create a new dimension to a range of university activities, boosting our life-changing research and job-creating innovation. This agreement marks the beginning of our conversations, but the site could enable more public involvement with our science and research, and help our city retain more of our graduate talent, start-up, and spin-out businesses that begin life at the University of Bath and attract further inward investment.”

The project will undoubtedly be mentioned at networking events and upcoming property networking events in Bath, as the University and B&NES Council engage with potential partners, residents, and stakeholders to explore new possibilities. This initiative aims to drive inclusive economic prosperity, create high-value jobs, and enhance public wellbeing in line with the Economic Strategy for Bath and North East Somerset 2024-2034.

As the partnership develops, it will also be a focal point at construction networking events in the region, providing insights into the collaborative efforts needed to transform the Bath Quays North site into a thriving hub of innovation and enterprise.