After serving the community for over two centuries, a major retail landmark in Cheltenham has permanently closed its doors. Cavendish House, recognised as the town's oldest department store, ceased trading on Sunday, February 1, marking the end of an era that began in 1823.
Sudden Closure and Small Business Impact
The closure came with just three weeks' notice to retailers operating within the premises. In recent years, the store had been repurposed as a rental space for small businesses and entrepreneurs, providing a vital platform for growth and community commerce.
Siobhan Westmacott, a trader at Cavendish House, shared her experience with the BBC: "We've grown so much, it's been really positive for us. There's been a lot of bad press about Cavendish House, but for our part it has been a success."
Historical Context and Future Plans
The building has undergone several transformations throughout its long history. Most notably, it was occupied by House of Fraser from 1970 until April 2024. The current owner, Canada Life Asset Management, plans to demolish the structure to make way for new developments.
A spokesperson for Canada Life Asset Management confirmed: "Cavendish House will be closing on January 31 to facilitate the next stage of the building's redevelopment, beginning with the removal of the bridge link to Regent Arcade."
Demolition Timeline and Community Response
While an exact demolition date hasn't been finalised, the connecting bridge to Regent Arcade will be the first element to be removed. The company has indicated they're engaged in pre-application planning discussions with Cheltenham Borough Council and remain committed to working with local stakeholders.
Traders who previously operated within Cavendish House have already begun relocating to other premises within the community. Discussions about the site's redevelopment are reportedly underway, though specific plans haven't been publicly detailed.
The closure represents a significant moment in Cheltenham's retail history, with the loss of a building that has stood through multiple generations of shoppers and economic changes. The future of the prominent site now rests with redevelopment plans that will reshape this part of the town centre.
