Cheltenham's Cavendish House 'could be part of a new square'

A community group is calling for a historic city center building to become a vibrant center with Regency features.

Cheltenham Civic Society has proposed the creation of a 'Cavendish Square' which would link the promenade to Regent Street.

It is said that each of the four sides of the new square would be dominated by a handsome building.

The association, which works to preserve the spa town's architecture, says that all neighboring listed buildings would be preserved and upgraded.

The Everyman Theater with Matcham's Edwardian facade would be the main feature of the south-east side. Opposite, in the Prom across the square, would be the Regency Terrace with the Waterstones bookshop.

On the northeast side would be the former District Court building, next to a new four- or five-story building complex with shops and offices above.

“The council should have a public debate about what could be done,” said Andrew Booton, chairman of the Civic Society. “They should increase their ambition and insist on an outcome driven by both public interest and private profit.”

“Of course the location must be economically viable, but also exciting and do justice to its central location.”

“We hope our initial ideas will inspire Canada Life to develop something even better,” Mr. Booton added.