Plans to transform a historic city centre building into Bath’s new Fashion Museum are set for a crucial decision next week.
Bath and North East Somerset Council proposes converting the former post office building at the corner of New Bond Street and Broad Street into a stunning new home for the museum’s world-renowned clothing collection. Since leaving its previous location at the Assembly Rooms in 2022, the collection has been stored in a glove factory in Wiltshire.
The council’s planning committee will vote on whether to approve the redevelopment on Wednesday, May 13. Planning officers have recommended approval, emphasizing that “the benefits of the proposal decisively outweigh the identified harms.”
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The project envisions creating galleries on the upper floors, a versatile exhibition space in the existing 2005 rear extension, and removing another extension to restore the building’s historic courtyard. A spacious and inviting foyer will house a museum shop with a New Bond Street storefront.
In addition, the scheme includes pedestrianizing the end of Broad Street to create a new public square, featuring outdoor seating linked to a cafe planned in the museum’s foyer.
Although the plan comes from the council itself, the planning committee operates independently and has previously rejected council proposals, such as the case with the controversial padel courts.
Nonetheless, this Fashion Museum plan has garnered wide expert support. Only one objection was received from the public, citing concerns over transport links.
Securing planning permission is a vital milestone needed to advance the project, which aims to open the new museum by 2030.
The project is estimated to cost £54 million, covering £37 million for renovation, £8 million to purchase the building, and £7 million for the public square. Funding will come from grants including the West of England Combined Authority and the National Lottery, covering almost half the renovation costs. The council plans to borrow £20 million to finance the remainder.
Profits generated by the museum are expected to cover £17 million of the borrowing costs, with the remaining £3 million funded through the council’s operational budget.
Council cabinet member for resources, Mark Elliott, defended the investment in March, stating, “To get an entirely new world-class museum including improvements to the surrounding public realm for £54 million will be a great achievement.
“This is a project that will create a major new cultural and heritage asset for the people of Bath and North East Somerset of international importance. This is more than a museum: it’s a catalyst for civic pride, a driver for social and economic improvement, a major learning and skills development hub, a celebration of craftsmanship, a boost for the visitor economy, and a key driver for regenerating the Milsom Quarter.”
The planning committee will convene at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13, in the council chamber of Bath’s Guildhall.