• Swindon & Wiltshire Property
• Wednesday March 12 2025
• Author Name: Peter Davison

Planners give go-ahead to new business centre

Ambitious plans to transform a Grade II listed former pub and grounds into new offices, a business centre, serviced accommodation, a community hub and homes have been approved by North Somerset Council.

Bristol-based property developers and architects StudioHIVE have secured planning consent to revive the former Battleaxes pub in Wraxall, which closed prior to the first Covid lockdown in 2019.

Built in 1882, the building has been renamed The Temperance House by StudioHIVE to recognise its origins as a temperance inn for workers at the nearby Tyntesfield Estate.

As well as North Somerset Council, the plans have the backing of Wraxall & Failand Parish Council.

Jason Collard, managing director of StudioHIVE, said: “We are thrilled to have worked with North Somerset Council to achieve full planning consent for this exciting mixed-use development, securing the future of an important and much-loved building.

“The former Battleaxes pub has a fascinating history and we are delighted to have the opportunity to transform the site into a highly desirable place to work, meet, shop and stay.

“We have spent a lot of time working with Wraxall & Failand Parish Council and directly with local residents and community groups to devise a scheme that will preserve and breathe new life into this Grade II listed building, enhance its surroundings and provide new amenities for businesses and the wider community to enjoy.

“We are busy adapting and extending the existing spaces into an inspiring, state-of-the-art office environment for our developer and architecture businesses and look forward to launching the new facilities at The Temperance House later this year.”