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Podsmead Regeneration Plan Set for Step Forward

Published
The regeneration of the Podsmead estate could take another step forward if councillors give the green light to a draft agreement for land to be transferred to Gloucester City Homes (GCH).

Gloucester City councillors at tomorrow’s (Wednesday, January 10) cabinet meeting could agree to sell eight acres of land to GCH to enable the ambitious scheme to go ahead.

The development would see the construction of up to 177 new affordable homes as well as new retail, recreation and community facilities along with enhanced areas of open space including a park and play area.

The land would be sold to GCH at below market value as part of the council’s contribution to the scheme.

It is intended that the development would take place over a four-year period, starting early next year.

Among the benefits for residents are a revamped shopping area on Podsmead Road and a clearer pedestrian route linking Tuffley and Bristol Road, to make it safer for people walking to school, and accessing local sports pitches and parks.

The development will honour the council’s commitment to the environment and to addressing climate change by minimising energy usage in the construction methods and in the energy efficiency of the new homes.

The development will also have a Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) that takes account of biodiversity, water quality and flooding.

Councillor Stephanie Chambers, cabinet member for Planning and Housing Strategy at Gloucester City Council, said: “We believe this is a great scheme that will see millions invested into Podsmead. The scheme will improve current housing as well as providing much needed new affordable housing for the residents of Gloucester wanting to get on the property ladder through shared ownership. It will also provide a great deal of social housing which will benefit local people on the housing waiting list. The planned new community facilities and retail, set to include a pharmacy, will help improve the health and wellbeing of the residents of Podsmead.”

Guy Stenson, Chief Executive of Gloucester City Homes, said: “The support of Gloucester City Council will enable GCH to move forward our exciting plans in Podsmead which will not only see us building up to 177 new homes, but also working with the local community to invest in improving existing homes, community facilities and the physical environment. Our next step would be to submit a full planning application in the Spring.”