Five Guys, 8 Sawclose, City Centre

8 Saw Close is part of the 2017-2018 redevelopment of the Saw Close area. It is a predominantly pedestrian-friendly area within the core of the Bath conservation area and World Heritage site. 8 Saw Close is situated opposite several Grade II* Georgian buildings including the Theatre Royal and Beau Nash’s house, and is adjacent to the Grade II The Loft Club.

We have some concerns regarding the proposed use of illuminated signage within the core of the conservation area, due to Bath’s established visual and atmospheric character as a “low illuminated” city. Whilst Saw Close is a contemporary addition to Bath, it remains accessible by historic streets including Barton Street and Upper Borough Walls; therefore, the proposed installation of illuminated signage is inappropriate in accordance with Policies D2, D8, and HE1 of the Core Strategy and Placemaking Plan, and will be of detriment to the citywide night time character of Bath, as well as the contextual setting of two Grade II* listed buildings.

We would also recommend that details regarding the proposed internal illuminated sign are clarified as part of this application due to its exclusion from the conditions of deemed consent as stated within The Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) (England) Regulations 2007.