News / Barton Hill
Bristol’s smallest cafe applies for Bristol’s smallest planning permission
There has already been a huge outpouring of support for Bristol’s smallest cafe.
Now that support is needed more than ever, as the owner of 3ft 6 applies for a retrospective change of use for part of his garage to become a cafe that it has been for almost a year.
Rob Savage – known to all as Sav – has made the front portion of his garage on Lancaster Street a much-loved community space since it opened in March 2022.
is needed now More than ever
Now he just needs official planning permission from Bristol City Council, who have already granted an alcohol license so that 3ft 6 can sell booze to the burghers of Barton Hill and Redfield.
“This is about creating a greater sense of cohesion in the local community,” said Sav.
“If you have ever visited, if you buy into the idea, if you just want to share your love, then please lend us positive support and comment on the planning application. It’s a tiny application for a tiny cafe.”

3ft 6 head barista Casey Williams (left) and owner Rob Savage (right) – photo: Martin Booth
Within only a couple of days, dozens of people have already left comments in support of the planning application – which is for just 3.12 square metres of change of use.
“To get so much support so quickly is vindication of the positive support that we are making to the area,” Sav added.
“This was born out of lockdown and the possibility of seeing something where before there was a real lack in the area, and it has quickly become a community hub.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
Read next:
- Bristol’s best new food and drink openings of 2023
- Bristol’s smallest cafe opens in a garage
- New vegan pasta restaurant to open in city centre
Listen to the latest Bristol24/7 Behind the Headlines podcast: