Bath office block requires air conditioning after ‘overheating issues’

An office block in the centre of Bath has “overheating issues” which are affecting staff’s wellbeing and productivity.

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The problems at Queen Square House at Queen Square Place are revealed in a planning application submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council.

Built around 1990, Georgian-style Queen Square House provides open-plan office accommodation.

The application, which has been lodged by Farlington Enterprises Limited, is to install four external air conditioning units in a lightwell at the front of the building.

A statement with the application explains: “The proposed A/C units/plant are required as part of the necessary upgrading and modernisation of the existing office accommodation, which is currently experiencing overheating issues.

“This is primarily due to limited opportunities for natural ventilation and the absence of sufficient passive cooling measures, resulting in elevated internal temperatures during peak periods.

“The resulting thermal discomfort has begun to adversely affect staff wellbeing, productivity, and compliance with workplace health and safety expectations.

“To address these issues and to ensure a safe and comfortable working environment, the installation of new A/C units (plant) is required to provide effective cooling and to maintain appropriate internal temperature levels throughout the year.

“The proposed A/C units (plant) are therefore considered entirely necessary to support the continued safe and efficient occupation of Queen Square House.”

A noise assessment is submitted with the planning application.

The planning reference is 26/01748/FUL and any comments must be submitted before 18th June.