Repurposing vacant units in Bath offers new opportunities for independent businesses

Bath & North East Somerset Council has brought three retail units on the ground floor of the building up to standard for independent traders to occupy, thanks to funding from the West of England Combined Authority, which will improve the retail offer in New Bond Street and increase footfall. A further unit has been redeveloped for use as a base for Milsom Quarter Regeneration and pop-up space.

This meanwhile use of the spaces comes ahead of the relocation of the Fashion Museum Bath and is part of the council’s Milsom Quarter Masterplan, an ambitious 20-year vision to transform the Milsom Quarter area of Bath into a fashion destination that will attract creative industries to the region.

Local independent businesses are invited to express an interest in renting the spaces and the council is especially encouraging occupiers with fashion and design at the core of their business who are local to the area. The rental income generated will directly support the future redevelopment of the building.

Small local traders, designers, makers, artists and charities can hire 22c New Bond Street named ‘Studio 22’. The space follows on from the council’s previous project at 15 New Bond St and can be used for weekend pop-ups, with council teams using the space on weekdays to offer residents and businesses easy access to key information.

The ‘Meanwhile Uses’ project has been funded by the West of England Combined Authority for delivery of the Milsom Quarter.

It builds on the success of the High Street Renewal Programme which has brought events, art and street dressing and street furniture to the Milsom Quarter.

Councillor Paul Roper, cabinet member for Economic and Cultural Sustainable Development, said: “It’s excellent to see these spaces brought back to a standard where they can be used again, as we work to redevelop the Fashion Museum Bath. We are committed to reanimating this area of the city and want to provide an opportunity for independent businesses to expand the retail offering for residents and visitors. We particularly welcome interest from occupiers who align with our aims to make Milsom Quarter a fashion and design destination for the South West.”

Anyone wishing to enquire about hiring Studio 22 as a three-day pop-up space is invited to email HighStreet_Renewal@bathnes.gov.uk. All of the council’s vacant properties for rent or sale can be found on the council website.