Gloucestershire Daily
NEW

Cheltenham’s New Housing Row Criticized for ‘Prison-Block Chic’ Design

Monday, May 25, 2026 cheltenham architecture housing heritage development civicsociety regency urbandesign arklecourt planning

A new housing development in Cheltenham has sparked controversy, with residents and heritage advocates condemning its design as reminiscent of a Soviet-era prison block. The Arkle Court estate, consisting of 147 homes built by Wavensmere Homes on the former North Place car park, has drawn sharp criticism from the Cheltenham Civic Society as it nears completion. The Civic Society, a prominent local group dedicated to preserving Cheltenham’s architectural heritage, expressed disappointment over the appearance of the terrace houses.