A proposed new town of 3,500 homes near the A417 in Gloucestershire has sparked fears it will permanently damage the Malvern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The development, named Glynchbrook, is part of Forest of Dean District Council’s plan for growth but critics warn it will “fundamentally alter” the unique landscape character.
An interim report from Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments highlights a “severe” negative effect on the rural surroundings. The consultancy warns the land currently thrives as a well-preserved rural landscape with limited capacity to absorb large-scale development without irreversibly changing its character. Furthermore, the site lacks sufficient green infrastructure, making it unsuitable for a settlement of this size.
Residents have voiced strong opposition to the plans, particularly for the risks posed to the Malvern Hills. Eighteen-year-old Bluebell Barling of Lowbands, a committed Green Party supporter, expressed disappointment that such a project would undermine environmental priorities. “Nobody in Gloucestershire wants to see the natural landscape sacrificed for more housing,” she said. “Glynchbrook won’t keep the region green — it will make it grey.”
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Local community member Phil Waring, 66, agreed that while housing is needed, building such a car-dependent town on the edge of the hills would be a “tragic” mistake. Natasha Whitehead, who runs a small local business, added that Glynchbrook risks reducing the Malvern Hills to just “another green space” stripped of their spectacular natural views.
Forest of Dean District Council acknowledges these concerns and is reviewing them alongside government-imposed housing targets. The local plan consultation for Glynchbrook is open to the public until March 18, inviting residents to share their views.
A council spokesperson emphasized that no decisions have been made yet. All potential sites will be assessed for flood risk, transport access, environmental impact, and sustainability before any proposals are finalized. Should Glynchbrook proceed, further detailed assessments and consultations would take place to ensure compliance with national and local planning standards.
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the consultation process via the council’s website or by email.