Cheltenham Borough Council is setting its sights on the ambitious Golden Valley development near GCHQ, envisioning it as a hallmark achievement before the council’s imminent merger. The project promises to create 12,000 jobs and construct up to 3,700 new homes, positioning the area as a national centre for cyber innovation.
Liberal Democrat leader Rowena Hay views Golden Valley not just as a local initiative, but a regional and international opportunity. Following her party’s strong performance in the recent local elections—securing 42.3% of the vote and holding 35 of 40 council seats—she interprets this as a clear endorsement of her administration’s leadership.
With local government reorganisation set to dissolve Cheltenham Borough Council within the next two years, merging it with Gloucestershire County Council into a unitary authority, Hay emphasizes the urgency of protecting the town’s core values. She is committed to ensuring continued economic and housing development while preserving Cheltenham’s treasured parks, gardens, museums, and festivals.
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“There’s always room for improvement,” Hay acknowledges, citing funding constraints, but stresses her administration’s focus remains on addressing the cost of living crisis and leaving no one behind. She highlights the council’s flagship venture to establish the UK’s largest cluster of cyber firms in West Cheltenham as vital to providing jobs, homes, and skills, especially for retaining young people.
While proud of the council’s accomplishments, Hay also identifies significant challenges ahead. These include determining the future of Gloucestershire Airport, jointly owned with Gloucester City Council, after a failed sale attempt earlier this year. Additionally, tackling empty high street shops remains a priority, despite Cheltenham’s occupancy rates exceeding the national average. The council has utilized auctions as an effective tool to encourage shop refurbishments and reduce vacancies.
Looking forward, there are discussions about creating a town council for Cheltenham’s unparished areas following the local government changes. This body would complement rather than replace the borough council, potentially managing community centres, parks, cemeteries, and street cleanliness.
“My focus over the next two years is to do everything I can to protect what matters most to residents,” Hay says, affirming her commitment to safeguarding Cheltenham’s identity amid transition.