Proposal
Change of Use of the Public Highway to allow the temporary siting of a catering bar – pop-up Apres-Ski bar with two outside tables and eight chairs in 2020, 2021…
Our Response

The proposed site for the annual construction of a temporary Apres-Ski bar is on the pavement outside of the Abbey Hotel, a Grade II* listed Georgian property situated within the core of the Bath conservation area and World Heritage site that forms part of a dense cluster of Grade II listed Georgian buildings concentrated around Terrace Walk that faces out towards the Grade II Parade Gardens. Therefore, this application is expected to suitably consider the preservation and enhancement of the public realm and architectural value of the conservation area as well as the setting of a Grade II* heritage asset.

BPT does not object to the design or the principle of the chalet structure, and acknowledges that it has previously been a temporary feature of social benefit over the Christmas period. It remains a distinctive feature of Bath’s annual Christmas Market.

However, the Trust maintains some uncertainty and concern regarding the proposed dates of trading. Whilst the D&A Statement requests that the chalet is erected for a total of “47 days each year over the Christmas period”, the proposed opening dates from 2020-2022 only suggest 33-34 days of trading, or 39-40 days if the dates for the set-up and removal of the chalet structure are included. Therefore, we are uncertain as to why a total of 47 days has been requested, and are reluctant to support this extended period of trade that will drastically exceed the defined dates for the Christmas Market itself.

Application Number: 19/05330/FUL
Application Date: 10/12/2019
Closing Date: 17/01/2020
Address: Abbey Hotel, 1 North Parade
Our Submission Status: Comment