Top quality restaurant operators are being sought by Bath & North East Somerset Council for a new dining quarter in Bath City Centre.
The 18th Century Colonnades on the banks of the river next to Pulteney Bridge, are being developed as part of a larger regeneration within the city, which will see the re-opening of many of the city’s historic routes and the enhancement of Bath Market and Newmarket Row.
Situated below Grand Parade, two new restaurants with al fresco dining, overlooking Pulteney Bridge and the weir are proposed. Grand Parade will be transformed with the introduction of two new “Receptions” providing greeting areas and lift access to each restaurant, in addition to the installation of a new stairwell leading down to the Colonnades and the potential to provide access from Boatstall Lane and Parade Gardens.
Councillor David Bellotti, Cabinet Member for Community Resources, said, “This is an important step ahead for the project the Council seeks operators for the new dining quarter. This city has an excellent reputation for working with the private sector to deliver high quality redevelopment projects that support the regeneration of the city. We look forward to hearing from people interested in being part of an exciting future.”
Fleurets appointed
Leisure property specialists Fleurets has been appointed to act on behalf of the Council to attract new restaurant tenants to the development. Kevin Conibear from Fleurets’ Bristol office said, “Restaurant demand for Bath is always exceptional, due to the popularity of the city and the visitors that it attracts, coupled with limited restaurant availability. The Colonnades is unique and will offer riverside dining within the heart of the city. The image of Pulteney Bridge and the Colonnades defines Bath and is one of the most recognisable aspects of the city and this really is a great opportunity for restaurateurs to acquire trophy sites.”
It is anticipated that the restaurants will be available for occupation in early 2015 and it is understood that prior to marketing there has been considerable expressions of interest.