Plans to develop almost 100 energy-efficient city centre homes have been shared for consultation.

A reserved matters application has been made by the Bath and North East Somerset Council’s development company, Aequus Construction Limited (ACL), for phase two of the wider Bath Quays North mixed-use development site in Corn Street.

The site already has the benefit of an extant outline planning permission for the construction of 96 dwellings in two residential apartment blocks with associated work.

The application seeks approval for the reserved matters of access; layout; landscaping; scale and appearance pursuant to the outline planning permission and aims to deliver one and two- bedroom apartments providing energy-efficient city centre homes in a design that is sensitive to its heritage and landscape context.

Councillor Matt McCabe, cabinet member for built environment, housing and sustainable development, said: “Aequus’s planning application is part of a mix of housing options that will help us diversify housing supply locally and include open market, affordable and social housing right across B&NES.

“Building these homes as the first phase of Bath Quays North will help support further investment for affordable homes in later phases. This supports the council’s commitment set out in its Economic Strategy 2024-2034 to develop a housing offer that is accessible and attractive to all, ensuring our housing stock meets the needs of different resident groups.

“For example, at 117 Newbridge Hill we saw Aequus’s conversion of a historic building into 100 per cent social housing, with priority given to key workers. Our own B&NES Homes has provided 67 homes for people.

“By providing a steady supply of affordable and secure housing options, we have been able to offer permanent homes to those previously reliant on temporary housing.”

If plans are approved, delivering the residential phase to provide high quality housing will enable the development of the wider Avon Street car park site, which the council has earmarked as a future employment space.

Last year the council and the University of Bath announced a new partnership to develop a vision for the future of this key site. The two organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding to determine the development of the riverfront site in the heart of the city.

Signing the Memorandum of Understanding allows conversations to start about exciting possibilities including new space for research, innovation and enterprise activities, bringing important economic activity to the heart of the city.