Bath property developer Kersfield has teamed up with city-based architects The Nash Partnership and renovation specialist consultancy MEO Projects, also based in Bath, to develop four apartments next to one of the city’s historic landmarks.
The Beckford Gate scheme in Lansdown takes its name from the Grade II listed gateway that stands at the southern boundary of the site. 
It will comprise two large apartments and two maisonettes, replacing a 1960s suburban-style home which lacked the scale and grandeur of surrounding properties. Two of the homes are already under offer.
The scheme, which will have commanding views over Bath and the surrounding countryside, will be built in a Georgian style, sympathetic to the character of the area and dressed in Ashlar stone.
Work will also include essential repairs to Beckford’s Gate, making it safe and arranging long-term stewardship and managed access so the public can once again visit the landmark close to the iconic Grade I listed Beckford’s tower.
The castellated gate was built in the 19th century and once formed part of William Beckford’s Ride – a former pleasure ground developed by William Beckford, the writer, book collector and patron of the arts.
Additional trees will be planted to enhance the green backdrop, while preserving the appearance of the conservation area.
The plans have been drawn up in consultation with the Bath Preservation Trust, the Beckford Society and the Lansdown Crescent Residents Association.
Kersfield chief executive David Newton said: “We’re very excited to be working on such a unique development, which will offer generous, beautifully appointed accommodation set over four storeys.
“We’ve worked hard to create a development that combines the highest quality fittings you would expect from a modern property, while seamlessly fitting with the local architecture and preserving this important landmark for the community to enjoy.
“Even at this very early stage, we’ve had a lot of interest and two homes are already under offer.”
Completion is expected in spring next year. The Bath offices of property agents Knight Frank and Savills, have been appointed as joint agents.
Kersfield, which specialises in developing high-end homes, recently completed the transformation of Burwalls, a Grade II listed former mansion next to the Clifton Suspension Bridge, into five beautifully-appointed apartments.
A further six houses have been built in its stable block and ancillary buildings with the whole five-acre development of gardens and woodland having spectacular views.
