Developer eyes further city centre regeneration after Bridlesmith Gate success

A Nottingham developer says it has completed the regeneration of Bridlesmith Gate, turning it into a new shopping destination with a vision to create Nottingham’s own ‘Carnaby Street’.

Arran Bailey, managing director of ALB Group, purchased 14 properties on Bridlesmith Gate and Byard Lane, and seven in Lister Gate, to revitalise the streets.

All the properties are now fully let, featuring a mix of tenants ranging from retailers like Fred Perry to new businesses like Table 47, Fopp and Coco Tang Cafe and Cocktail Bar.

As part of the project, Bailey commissioned local artists to create murals on several buildings, including one on the former Paul Smith store in Byard Lane, which was unveiled by the fashion designer himself.

Bailey, who started the regeneration project in 2021, is now focusing on further development in Lister Gate, where Flannels has already opened and Sports Direct is set to take over a former H&M unit in 2025.

He said: “I’m Nottingham born and bred and so knew the history of this area of town. I aimed to re-establish its vibrancy and appeal. By buying up empty units and injecting the spirit of creativity back into the area, I knew it would draw in independent as well as established retailers and re-establish its prestige.

“Our approach to re-establishing the area’s appeal has been a huge success. Bridlesmith Gate has been reinvigorated and is back to being the thriving location it was before the Broadmarsh Centre closed. The closure was massively upsetting, as were the delays to the decisions on the site’s future. However, the new Broad Marsh Green Heart Park is now open and has created an attractive gateway into the city. It is another step in the right direction. The future is bright for Nottingham.”