Genesis Trust granted permission for new building on Walcot Street

Bath-based charity the Genesis Trust say they are delighted to have been granted planning permission by Bath & North East Somerset Council’s planning committee to redevelop a building on Walcot Street.The charity, which helps homeless and vulnerable people in Bath has never had a permanent base in the city and has worked out of a series of temporary buildings for over 20 years.The premises were transferred to the charity by Bath & NE Somerset Council via a community asset transfer last year.A major programme of refurbishment is needed and Genesis has ambitious plans for its restoration.The building, to be called the Genesis Centre, will comprise training facilities, a workshop, a smart retail shop and staff offices. The retail shop, which will sell bespoke upcycled furniture that has been renovated by clients, will blend well into Walcot Street’s eclectic mix of shops and businesses.The training centre will assist clients to gain new skills and engage in work experience to prepare them for employment, further study or volunteering opportunities in the community.The planning approval has come in the year that Genesis is celebrating 21 years of working with disadvantaged people in the city of Bath.