Council leaders today welcomed the announcement by department store group Morleys Stores Ltd. that it will reopen Jolly’s in Milsom Street, Bath.   

Councillor Kevin Guy, Bath & North East Somerset Council leader, said: “Morleys Stores will bring an exciting shopping experience to residents and visitors alike and I am delighted to welcome the business to our vibrant city and to one of the most loved stores in Bath.

“Milsom Street has always been a very special shopping destination and Morleys Stores is a fantastic fit for the area. Morleys’ decision complements the investment the council is making in the Milsom Quarter.  Since the previous tenant announced their departure the council has been working hard to ensure a secure future for this flagship store and a significant element of the plan is to make it once again the anchor store for Milsom Street.”  

Morleys Department Stores is renowned for its exceptional customer service and diverse range of high-quality products, offering a wide selection of fashion, beauty, homeware, and more. The new store aims to cater to the needs of the local community while also attracting shoppers from surrounding areas.

Councillor Mark Elliott, cabinet member for Resources, added: “We set out the council’s commitment to the local economy in our ten-year Economic Strategy and this investment is a very positive recognition of the great retail offer our city has and the work the council has undertaken to support it. I join others in welcoming Morleys Stores to Bath.”

Allan Winstanley, Chief Executive of Morleys Department Stores, said: “We are thrilled to start preparations to open up in Jolly’s and restore this heritage store to it’s former glory for Bath. Our business treats all our stores as unique independent stores, designed to serve their local community with curated and considered product collections and store experiences. We will strive to provide an outstanding shopping experience for the community of Bath and its visitors.”

A programme of works are currently under way on the building which is owned by the council. Due to restorative works to the building being essential, Morleys Department Stores aims to open in Jolly’s in 2026. For details about Morleys Department Stores and its plans for the store please go to www.elyswimbledon.co.uk/pages/our-stores