The Cheltenham community is disheartened by the lack of advancement in the plans to redevelop Cavendish House, the town’s oldest department store. After the closure of the house of Fraser branch at the site in April last year, temporary pop-up stalls took its place while the owners formulated redevelopment strategies. Canada Life Asset Management, the owner, has been engaged in pre-planning application discussions with Cheltenham Borough Council, aiming for a mixed-use scheme that includes much-needed town center accommodation.
However, the Cheltenham Civic Society (CCS) expresses disappointment with the noticeable lack of progress in the Cavendish House redevelopment. CCS reveals that Canada Life had assured them of pre-application talks and expected engagement with the society for consultation. The Civic Society emphasizes that the prolonged discussions, going on for at least four years, reflect poorly on the transparency and commitment of the owner.
The slow progress indicates the opacity and turgidity of the pre-application process, and the owner’s lack of dedication to the town, remarks Andrew Booton, the chairman of the Civic Society. Furthermore, concerns arise over the potential negative impact if both Cavendish House and the Municipal Offices are left vacant simultaneously.
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The Civic Society advocates for a redevelopment plan that integrates diverse uses, high-quality architecture, public open spaces, and a pedestrian link with Regent Street, which was positively received by the public. Despite the frustrations, Canada Life reaffirms its commitment to the town and its ongoing efforts toward the Cavendish House redevelopment.