Chapter 22, a beloved Bath shop known for its unique combination of plants and vinyl records, is on the verge of closure after receiving a firm ultimatum over unpaid rent. Located on Broad Street, this independent store, run by Nicola Taylor and Dean Brown, has become a local favourite not only for its distinctive offerings but also for regularly hosting music and poetry events. The shop recently celebrated four years in business and has earned a gold award at Bath in Bloom three times.
However, the landlord, Bath and North East Somerset Council, has issued a “pay up or close” demand, requiring a substantial portion of outstanding rent to be settled by Monday, September 29. Despite the owners' request for a repayment plan, citing challenging trading conditions during a long, quiet summer marked by low foot traffic on Broad Street, the council’s position remains firm.
The couple highlighted longstanding issues with the street, which has earned the nickname “Grim Street” due to poor signage and reduced customer visits compared to other areas of the city centre. While summer sales were slow, they emphasized that trade typically improves during upcoming key shopping periods like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and Easter.
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Mark Elliott, the council’s cabinet member for resources, stated that enforcement actions are a last resort after extensive discussions and negotiations, underscoring the council’s duty to collect outstanding debts from individuals or businesses. The imminent closure of Chapter 22 not only threatens a cherished local business but also underscores the growing challenge of empty units on Broad Street amid a difficult retail environment.