Green light for first phase of £85m Gloucester scheme

Developers have been given the nod to start work on an £85m city centre “digital quarter” redevelopment in Gloucester which councillors hope will “revitalise” the area. Authorities have given planning consent for the first phase of The Forum, a 600,000 sq ft mixed-use scheme being developed by Gloucester City Council and Reef Group, while the second phase has now been submitted for approval. [caption id="attachment_1072415" align="aligncenter" width="847"] The Forum, phase one[/caption] The first phase will involve building 43 flats with views to the city’s historic cathedral, as well as retail space which will house a new Tesco. The developers will now select a contractor, with work expected to start in the spring. Meanwhile, plans for the major second phase of the scheme include more than 125,000 sq ft of office space, which will sit next to a 131-bedroom four-star hotel, as well as a gym, restaurants and bars. [caption id="attachment_1072416" align="aligncenter" width="847"] The Forum, phase two[/caption] Richard Cook, leader of Gloucester City Council, said: “This is a very important milestone for this ambitious scheme, which will revitalise a key, but formerly tired, area of the city centre. “Together with the rejuvenated Kings Square, and its attractive places to eat, drink and shop for residents and visitors, The Forum will bring in major occupiers and significant investors to the city and cement Gloucester’s reputation as a thriving and vibrant destination to work, live and visit.” [caption id="attachment_1072417" align="aligncenter" width="847"] The Forum, phase two[/caption]