Cheltenham's ‘tatty tents’ at 131 Promenade to come down after 6 years
Julian Dunkerton’s “tatty tents” outside No 131 The Promenade in Cheltenham will be removed in the coming weeks some six years after they were first put up.
The marquees were put up outside 131 and 133 in summer 2020 when planning rules were relaxed to allow outdoor dining and support businesses during Covid-19 pandemic.
These measures came to an end in 2022 and what followed has been a long planning battle over the marquees, which have previously been described as ‘tatty tents’ by Cheltenham Civic Society.
Plans to keep them in situ outside the grade-II* listed 131 and 133 were rejected by the Cheltenham Borough Council in November 2022.
This decision was upheld by a planning inspector during summer 2023 and the council began enforcement action, which has been the subject of an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate.
However, separate plans for a slim, metal pergola with a retractable roof to provide cover for outside seating at the boutique hotel and restaurant were approved in February last year.
Superdry co-founder Julian Dunkerton, who owns No 131, has now announced that work on the new terrace will begin this month with completion expected in October this year.
The project will see the removal of the existing temporary tents and the creation of a striking new terrace, according to those behind the scheme.
They say it will provide a high-quality, year-round hospitality space that complements Cheltenham’s iconic regency architecture and enhances one of the town’s most prominent locations.
“We are excited to begin work on this significant investment in No 131 and Cheltenham,” Mr Dunkerton said.
“The new terrace will create an exceptional space for guests while enhancing the appearance of the Promenade and supporting the town’s thriving hospitality and tourism economy.”
A spokesperson for No 131 said the new light touch structure is designed to sit sympathetically within the town’s historic streetscape. And it will provide an elegant and contemporary addition to No 131, offering visitors a premium experience throughout the year, while further strengthening Cheltenham’s reputation as one of the UK’s leading leisure and hospitality destinations, they say.
The development represents the latest investment by Mr Dunkerton and Jade Holland Cooper, who have collectively invested heavily into Cheltenham through a range of hospitality, retail and commercial venture. And their investments have helped create jobs, attract visitors and support local businesses, contributing significantly to the town’s continued growth and prosperity, they added.
No 131’s hotel will remain open throughout the renovation period, with the Terrace Restaurant continuing to welcome guests while the initial phase of work takes place in front of the neighbouring building.