The imminent closure of the historic Cavendish House building on Cheltenham’s Promenade has deeply saddened the traders and shoppers who have grown to cherish this landmark. After nearly two centuries of retail history, the building will cease trading as a retail space on January 31, marking the end of an era for one of the town’s most iconic shopping destinations.
Once home to the House of Fraser for over 50 years, Cavendish House has been a cornerstone of Cheltenham’s retail scene since 1823. Earlier this year, it briefly transformed into a hub for around 30 small independent pop-up businesses, offering aspiring entrepreneurs an affordable space to develop their ventures. However, this was always intended to be a temporary measure while the owners, Canada Life Asset Management, prepared plans for redevelopment.
Traders inside the building have received less than three weeks’ notice to vacate, prompting a wave of disappointment and concern about the future of retail in the town centre. Pam Thomas, proprietor of Joyce Brooks Lingerie, called the closure “disappointing” and stressed the importance of keeping retail alive on the Promenade to maintain a vibrant shopping experience that rivals other major stores such as Marks & Spencer and John Lewis.
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Siobhan Westmacott, who launched her haberdashery business, The Kiwi Fruit Is Cute, inside Cavendish House 18 months ago, described the opportunity as “once in a lifetime.” Thanks to the affordable rates and supportive environment, she was able to build and expand her enterprise. Despite the abrupt notice, she has secured new premises on the Lower High Street and praised the strong community support she has received.
Jay, owner of Travellers Finds, highlighted the vital role Cavendish House played as an incubator for small businesses, offering affordable rents that scarcely exist elsewhere. Many traders fear that such opportunities will become scarce as shops elsewhere demand higher costs.
Regular customers share these sentiments. Lesley Poole fondly remembers the building’s beautifully designed spaces and hopes the future use of the building will honor its legacy. Meanwhile, Flora, a former House of Fraser employee, urged developers to preserve Cavendish House’s retail heritage, warning that converting it into residential flats could diminish the area’s character.
Local MP Max Wilkinson described the news as “a real pity,” expressing hope that the independent traders will find new homes soon. He called on Canada Life to present clear, timely redevelopment plans to restore the building as a thriving town centre asset, emphasizing that revitalizing Cheltenham’s shopping and leisure venues remains a top priority.
As Cavendish House prepares to close its doors, the community’s heartfelt response underscores the building’s significance—not just as a retail space, but as a symbol of Cheltenham’s heritage and future retail potential. The evolving plans for its future will undoubtedly be watched closely by residents and business owners alike.