The Planning Committee of Bath and North East Somerset Council met on Wednesday 28 October 2026 to discuss several planning applications. Key decisions included the refusal of a self-build dwelling at the Site of Former Folly Inn Brewery and Pleasure Ground due to significant environmental and heritage concerns, and the approval of a variation to an existing permission for a dwelling on Bailbrook Lane, despite objections regarding its scale and unauthorised construction. The committee also permitted two applications for the change of use of residential properties to children's homes in Keynsham, citing a critical need for such facilities, and approved the construction of seven new dwellings on Lansdown View, Twerton, following an inspector's appeal decision.

Site of Former Folly Inn Brewery and Pleasure Ground, Lane Hampton Row to Grosvenor Bridge, Bathwick

The committee refused permission for the erection of a car-free self-build dwelling at the Site of Former Folly Inn Brewery and Pleasure Ground. The decision was based on multiple grounds, including the loss of designated open space and a critical component of the green infrastructure network, concerns over flood risk with the sole access falling within flood zone 3b, and the dwelling's design, scale, and materials being out of keeping with the character of the Conservation Area and World Heritage Site. Significant harm to trees and ecology, including adverse impacts on the Bath and Bradford-on-Avon Bats Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI), were also cited as reasons for refusal. Furthermore, the proposal was deemed to have unsatisfactory waste and recycling arrangements, inadequate emergency access, and insufficient information regarding sustainable construction.

Site of Former Nursery, Bailbrook Lane, Lower Swainswick

Permission was granted for a variation of condition for the erection of a self-build dwelling at the Site of Former Nursery. The application sought to regularise substantial changes made during construction, including a moderate rotation of the building's siting, an increase in ground level and overall height by approximately 1 metre, and the creation of new basement areas. Despite objections from ward councillors and residents regarding the building's increased scale, height, and potential harm to the Green Belt and heritage assets, officers concluded that the changes were moderate and that the building remained proportionate and sympathetic to its semi-rural context. The committee voted to permit the variation, with conditions attached, including those relating to materials, landscaping, and wildlife protection.

Proposed Development Site, Lansdown View, Twerton

The committee resolved to delegate permission for the construction of seven new dwellings at the Proposed Development Site, Lansdown View. This decision followed an appeal that had previously allowed a similar scheme. While acknowledging concerns raised by ward councillors and residents regarding the access road's suitability for emergency and recycling vehicles, ecological value, and outdated documentation, the officer's report highlighted that the appeal decision remained relevant and that there had been no significant changes in policy or circumstances. The committee voted to permit the development, subject to the completion of a Section 106 agreement for tree replacement contributions and the imposition of various conditions to ensure highway safety, construction management, and ecological protection.

26 Lulworth Road, Keynsham

Permission was granted for a change of use from C3 (Residential) to C2 (Children's Home) at 26 Lulworth Road. The proposal involves accommodating a maximum of three children aged between 8 and 17, with 24-hour on-site staffing. Keynsham Town Council and local residents had raised objections concerning insufficient operational detail, parking issues, and potential impacts on residential amenity. However, officers noted that the proposed use would have a higher level of supervision than the current supported accommodation and that the property met national space standards. The Strategic Commissioning Board supported the application, citing a significant need for local residential placements for looked-after children. The committee voted unanimously to permit the application.

1 Broadlands Avenue, Keynsham

Permission was granted for a change of use from C3 (Residential) to C2 (Children's Home) at 1 Broadlands Avenue. Similar to the previous application, this proposal aims to provide accommodation for a maximum of three children aged 8-17 with 24-hour on-site care. Keynsham Town Council, ward councillors, and numerous residents objected, citing concerns about noise, anti-social behaviour, parking congestion, and the suitability of the location. However, officers highlighted that the proposed use would involve more supervision than the current arrangement and that the property met space standards. The Strategic Commissioning Board supported the application due to the need for local placements. The committee voted to permit the application, with one member voting against.

New Planning Appeals Lodged, Decisions Received and Dates of Forthcoming Hearings/Inquiries

The committee noted the report on new planning appeals lodged, decisions received, and dates of forthcoming hearings/inquiries. This included noting that an appeal had been lodged for the refusal of planning permission at 26 Daniel Street and Parcel 7800 Grove Wood Road.

Quarterly Performance Report Covering Period 1 July - 30 September 2026

The committee received and noted the quarterly performance report. The report indicated that the council's performance in determining planning applications within target times remained strong, exceeding national averages for major applications. The delegation rate for planning applications was also in line with the national average, and the percentage of refusals remained low. The report also highlighted a decrease in planning application numbers compared to the previous year, but an increase compared to the same quarter in the previous year. Dwelling decisions showed two major residential planning decisions granted in the last quarter. The report also detailed planning appeal statistics, showing a higher rate of appeals dismissed than allowed over the last 12 months, and provided an update on enforcement investigations and works to trees.

The meeting concluded with the Chair formally drawing the meeting to a close.