A dramatic reduction in teaching space because of the need for social distancing has prompted the University of Bath to seek buildings across the city.

One of the few options available was renting two floors of Lewis House in Manvers Street after the lockdown showed owner Bath and North East Somerset Council its staff could work from home.

The university’s application for a temporary change of use of the offices says its teaching space has dropped from 8,500 seats to 1,700, and the capacity of its library has shrunk by more than 80 per cent.

Lewis House will provide 160 study spaces and should be available in time for the students’ arrival next month.

They are set to be educated through “blended learning” – a mix of in-person learning, online live interactive sessions and independent online study.

Professor Bernie Morley, deputy vice-chancellor and provost of the University of Bath said: “The safety and wellbeing of students, staff and the local community is a priority for the university.

“We have repurposed spaces on campus to allow for social distancing as well as making a lot of changes to university buildings including one-way systems, installing hand sanitisers, implementing rotas and staggered teaching times as well as developing guidance for students and staff about the steps we can all take to help keep the community safe.

“Renting this space in the city centre, which we will ensure is also socially distanced, will contribute significantly to our Covid-secure environment.

“In addition, it will also help to ease pressures on bus travel.

“We also hope that it will bring activity and vibrancy to the city centre, contributing to our recovery as a city and community.”

B&NES Council leader Dine Romero said renting out the first and second floors of Lewis House will provide valuable extra income.

Staff will also be moved out of the third and fourth floors so they can be rented out. The workers will be based at Keynsham Civic Centre, with the flexibility to work from home or book a space in the Guildhall when they need to be in the city.

Councillor Romero said: “Prior to Covid-19, we said we wanted to significantly reduce our office accommodation costs, given the financial pressures we were under even then.

“Lockdown has shown we can work flexibly, including from home where that makes sense.

“This year-long lease arrangement with the University of Bath gains us vital income from this building whilst maintaining service levels. It also helps with social distancing and reduces the need for students to travel as frequently.

“We are working closely with both universities to ensure a managed return of students at the start of the new academic year which puts public health at the centre.

“We are also committed to making sure the office space we own has active, well-managed uses that contribute to the economies and local businesses of Bath, Keynsham, Midsomer Norton and the wider area.”

The ground floor of Lewis House will continue to deliver public-facing services, including council and police, where it is safe to do so.