Bath has taken a major step towards introducing a Continental-style cafe culture following a move by the city’s Business Improvement District (BID) to transform Kingsmead Square into an al fresco dining and performing arts space.
The BID has officially lodged plans with Bath & North East Somerset Council following months of discussion with Kingsmead Square-based commercial property firm HPH and other businesses around the square.
The aim is to make Kingsmead Square more of an attraction in its own right, increasing the number of visitors and lengthening the time they spend there.
The existing fruit and vegetable stall and the public benches would be unaffected by the changes.
BID manager Andrew Cooper said: “Kingsmead Square is a key area of the city and the BID is working with local businesses with the goal of improving the amount of time people spend there. By attracting more people into this area of the city, we will enhance the vibrancy of the square and produce a wider benefit to surrounding businesses and the people who visit it.
“The BID is not acting unilaterally but is responding to requests and conversations we have held with local businesses who would like to see improvements in the way the area is managed. The BID is seeking to act as an enabler and help businesses bring about the positive change they want to see for the good of the area.
“This planning application looks to the future. It is about being visionary, aspirational and ensuring that Bath makes the most of Kingsmead Square.”
HPH managing director Lindsay Holdoway added: “This marks a significant milestone in the rejuvenation of this city centre site. It’s important to consider the role Kingsmead Square will play in the future as a key hub of entertainment and leisure for the city of Bath, and this planning application will help the area to realise its potential, complementing the existing culture of the city.”
The planning application has drawn up by architectural firm Stride Treglown, which has an office in Bath.
