Plans to bring thousands of skilled jobs to Bath are taking a step forward, with the contract for a new 45,000 sq ft office building on Bath Quays South being awarded to BAM construction.
Enabling works have already begun on site and the build will commence this spring. Once completed, it will provide Grade A office space as part of the Bath Quays development, and will be the first newly built office building in Bath for over 25 years.
Andy Smith from Knight Frank said: “This is just what the city needs. The supply of quality offices in the centre of Bath has declined significantly yet demand continues to grow from both Bath-based businesses looking to expand and from companies looking to relocate to Bath.
“We fully expect to see an influx of businesses from within and outside the region wanting to take advantage of this fantastic new space and Bath’s quality of life that few places can match”.
The new office building will provide a total of 45,000 sq ft of office accommodation over five open plan floors with basement parking, cycle storage, showers and lockers.
The accommodation has been designed to be flexible with the ability to subdivide floors in accordance with occupier requirements. The office building is due to be open to occupiers in 2021.
Neil Dorrington, Construction Director for BAM said: “The council has tasked us with a very interesting and very complex building scheme, and that is what we thrive on.
“It is a fascinating development, which requires our specialist design skills as well as our pedigree in making complex construction happen.
“As always, the key to success is how you work with your partners and we are delighted to be working closely with the council and its team to bring about these historic changes at the centre of Bath.”
Bath Quays South is part of a wider business district for Bath, the biggest office-led development ever undertaken in the city, spanning the north and south banks of the River Avon.
Councillor Tim Warren, leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, added: “Bath is a very desirable place to live, work in and to visit and we want to build on the city’s reputation as a centre for innovation by providing quality workspace that cutting-edge businesses need.
“An increase in the number of high value businesses in the city will result in higher wage jobs and improved opportunities for residents”.