Residents are being invited to have their say on a consultation over how planning applications for co-living schemes across Bath and North East Somerset are assessed.
A view of the approved co-living development coming down Wells Road | Image © Kosy Living
The adopted B&NES Local Plan does not currently include a policy specifically relating to co-living schemes.
A consultation on a Co-Living Position statement sets out the local authority’s interim position on this type of development.
Co-living is a relatively new model of housing with no standard policy definition. The developments are purpose-built residential schemes that include private studio bedspaces with access to shared communal facilities.
They may be new build, or conversions of existing buildings but they generally feature flexible tenancies, with a focus on communal areas to facilitate engagement and a sense of community and rent that includes all bills and access to services and in many cases, a concierge or management service.
Plans for a 77-bed co-living development on Wells Road in Bath was controversially approved last August, with the plans described as “sailing close to the wind”.
The position statement clarifies how the council will assess planning applications for co-living proposals with regards to the following topics:
- Amenity standard
- Occupancy
- Sustainable construction
- Affordable housing contribution
- Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) liability
Councillor Matt McCabe, cabinet member for built environment and sustainable development, said: “We have seen co-living schemes emerge as a relatively new model of housing that can be attractive to young professionals.
“However, in planning terms there is no standard policy definition. If accepted, this position statement will outline how each co-living planning application will be assessed by the council, so I encourage everyone to let us have teir comments.”
People can respond to the consultation using the online webform at the bottom of this page on the council website.
The deadline to submit comments is 4th March, 2025.
All comments will be reviewed and any relevant amendments will be made before a final position statement is published in March / April 2025.
