‘High-end operators’ sought to fill restaurant space at Bath Colonnades

Space has become available to house two restaurants on the 18th Century Colonnades on the banks of the river Avon next to Pulteney Bridge. The area is being developed as part of a larger regeneration taking place in Bath, which will see the re-opening of many of the city’s historic routes.

The two new restaurants would be situated below Grand Parade, with glazed frontages overlooking the bridge and the weir. The reception areas on street level allow space for extensive signage, with lifts then leading down to the restaurants by the riverside. There is also space for al fresco dining. A new stairwell is being installed with the potential to provide access from Boatstall Lane and Parade Gardens.

Fleurets divisional director Stuart Parsons said: “It’s a splendid location because it’s in a highly sought after area right in the centre of Bath. They’ll also be the only restaurants in the city that I can think of that overlook both the river and Pulteney Bridge.

“In terms of the space available one unit will have visible brick vaults, which in itself is quite unusual. The other unit will have a lot of exposed steel, which should give it a warehouse type feel. They’re both quite different in terms of what they offer."

Big-name chef​

Leisure property agents have already had a great deal of interest in the restaurant space because of its location, but are still interested in more proposals from operators.

Parsons added: “We feel the location justifies getting high-end restaurateurs in. We are hopeful of getting at least one named chef in there. Since there are two units we’d like a bit of contrast between them, we don’t want anything too similar. But we’re definitely looking for restaurants and not just bars. We want the spaces to be eating establishments.”

Councillor Paul Crossley, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said, “This is an exciting possibility for businesses who want a breath-taking and unique location for their restaurant. The redevelopment of the Colonnades is something which is particularly exciting given their riverside location and important place in Bath’s commercial history.”

The units are 350sqm and 475sqm in size and available for occupation in early 2015.