Bath BID (Business Improvement District) has lodged plans with the Council to enhance Kingsmead Square by introducing an al fresco dining and performing arts space.
The proposals to develop a Continental-style cafe culture in the square have been submitted following months of partnership working involving the BID, Kingsmead Square-based commercial property firm HPH, and a host of other businesses around the square.
The aim of the proposal, which was formally received by the council on 24th June, is to make Kingsmead Square more of an attraction in its own right, increasing the number of people who visit the square and increasing the length of time those visitors spend there.
Current amenities in the square, such as the fruit and vegetable stall and the public benches, would be unaffected by the changes.
Andrew Cooper, manager of Bath Business Improvement District, 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.”
Lindsay Holdoway, managing director of HPH, 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 been lodged with B&NES following work by Bath architects Stride Treglown.
