Pandora, 16 Southgate Place, City Centre

16 Southgate Place is an unlisted commercial building which forms part of the Southgate development that was completed in 2010, utilising a distinctly Georgian-esque style of architectural design. It is situated within the Bath conservation area and World Heritage Site. Whilst we appreciate the contemporary and eclectic nature of signage within Southgate, we strongly encourage the usage of high-quality signage and shopfronts in keeping with the wider historic character of the Bath conservation area and World Heritage site and the historic setting of the city core.

BPT resists the principle of illuminated signage. Bath is recognised as a low-illuminated city in which the maintained low levels of lighting complement the historic character and appearance of the city, and create a distinctive evening and night-time atmosphere.

However, we note that the application form states that the proposed illumination level would be 2cd/m2, which is significantly lower than typical light levels for illuminated signage (approximately 200cd/m2) and we suggest this detail is clarified.

We additionally query the proposed use of a slatted timber panel fascia with a natural, unpainted finish which would be somewhat visually incongruous with the established frontage treatment of the wider conservation area. Southgate implements a mix of painted timber, metal, and frameless glazing shopfronts; whilst diverse in appearance and using a more contemporary mix of materials and shopfront types, there is an identifiable, distinctive shopfront character in this area. We therefore strongly suggest that any proposed signage should be more indicative of its established commercial streetscape context to preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area and World Heritage Site.