Bath Podium is a 1960s concrete frame multistorey car park located within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bath. It is next to the River Avon adjacent to the Pulteney Bridge and provides parking for Waitrose, the Public Library and the Hilton Hotel. It’s safe to say, this was not a straight forward site.

This project involved refurbishing and restoring the existing car park and public realm to prolong the life of the building by a further 25 years. Our design incorporated a light touch set of interventions, including extensive concrete repairs and coatings and new building services. 

Previously an open sided building with unhindered access, the car park is now secured by fast speed vehicle shutters, stainless steel mesh infill and two brand new pedestrian-controlled entrance enclosures, one of which is strikingly clad in beautiful Accoya wood. You can read more about how the materials we chose were the key to the success of this project here and how sustainability was central to the entire project here.

There are now more Blue Badge Holder spaces than before and a clear wayfinding strategy to help visitors find their way around this 520 space car park right in the centre of the city. 

Environmental Upgrades

• We installed 212 new solar panels, which now provide 75.6 kwP of energy, which is equivalent to 75.6 kWh working at peak power. This will provide sufficient renewable energy to light the car park and Public Library.
• There are now six new electric vehicle charging points.
• We installed new electric shunt fans for ventilation.
• We incorporated new LED low energy lighting throughout the design.