Bath, a city known for its beauty, faces stark contrasts between wealth and poverty, especially in areas like Snow Hill, where challenges persist for residents.
Bath: When people visit Bath, they often rave about its stunning sights. The weir, Bath Abbey, and Roman Baths are just a few highlights. But there’s more to Bath than meets the eye.
This city is one of the wealthiest in the UK, yet it has stark divisions. Areas like Royal Crescent are filled with expensive homes, making it hard for many to live here.
On the flip side, places like Snow Hill tell a different story. This working-class area is often overlooked and faces challenges like classism and xenophobia.
Berkeley House, a high-rise in Snow Hill, offers short-term housing for those recovering from homelessness. It stands as a reminder of the struggles some residents face.
A local councillor pointed out that the council has limited resources to improve Snow Hill. The gap between the affluent city center and its outskirts is growing, making life tougher for some residents.
Concerns about Snow Hill aren’t new. A resident mentioned in 2020 that people judge those from poorer areas, starting even in schools. She felt her neighborhood had been forgotten.
Fast forward five years, and not much has changed. Cllr John Leach, who represents the area, spoke about the financial strain on councils due to austerity measures. Most funds go to social care, leaving little for other services.
John emphasized that there’s no extra money for improvements. Snow Hill has real needs, but the council’s ability to help is nearly non-existent.
While some funds are allocated for road repairs and neighborhood beautification, Snow Hill often gets overlooked. John, who has a personal connection to the area, finds it more relatable than other parts of Bath.
He shared a positive encounter with a long-time resident who takes pride in his family’s history in Snow Hill. However, some newcomers seem temporary, not fully invested in the community.
John noted that some residents are wary of local government, stemming from negative experiences in their home countries. This makes it hard for him to connect with them.
Not everyone sees Snow Hill negatively. Rowan, a long-time resident, has raised her daughter there and actively participates in community projects. She describes it as a friendly neighborhood with great access to the city.
Rowan’s daughter loves their home and has no interest in moving, even when offered fancier options. This shows the strong community ties in Snow Hill.
Curo, which manages some properties in Snow Hill, recognizes its importance. They highlight the area as a vibrant community that provides affordable housing for families.
With house prices soaring in Bath, many families struggle to find affordable homes. There are currently thousands on the waiting list for social housing.
Cllr Leach pointed out that negative comments about Snow Hill often reflect broader issues like classism and attitudes towards immigrants and the homeless.
He acknowledged that while Snow Hill has its challenges, it’s not as bad as some think. Bath generally ranks well in terms of deprivation, but inequality is growing in certain areas.
Child poverty rates are concerning, with many children living in tough conditions. The situation varies widely across different neighborhoods in Bath.
