New look Hollis?

Plans for a mixed-use redevelopment of the Hollis Building on Lower Bristol Road have been unveiled.

Bath-based Longacre, in conjunction with their JV partner Watkin Property Ventures, have submitted an application for the demolition of the existing warehouse building to facilitate the creation of a modern, efficient and sustainable building, comprising ground floor commercial space of c.6,500sqft alongside a 127 student bed accommodation on the upper floors.

Importantly, the development would also enable the retention of the existing tenant – the local charity Mercy In Action – with the creation of new commercial space to accommodate the charity on the ground floor.

John Todd, founder of Mercy In Action said: “As the current tenants, Mercy in Action, a national and international charity working to alleviate poverty, we are looking forward to our new home being built on the existing Jubilee Centre site. This purpose-built warehouse and offices will provide security for the next twenty years and will ensure the longevity and expansion of both local and national employment.

Local projects benefiting families in B&NES, including Action Pantry food club, the Clothesline (providing free clothing for the children of families in need) and Petra House (housing for homeless young women who are pregnant or with a baby) will have the opportunity to develop and offer further support. The new facility will continue to support the employment and day to day running of Mercy in Action’s charity and six charity shops in and around Bath.

Mark Tyrrell of Longacre added, “This scheme will secure the future of this important local charity.  This is a key brownfield site on a main route into the city and this development will bring considerable investment to the area to regenerate an often overlooked part of the city.”