Gloucester City Council has announced an ambitious new masterplan to guide the city centre’s regeneration over the next 20 to 25 years. This comprehensive plan aims to foster a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive environment that benefits residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
The council has appointed renowned urban design firm Prior + Partners to develop the masterplan, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). This initiative marks the first city-wide masterplan since the Gloucester Heritage Urban Regeneration Framework of 2006–07, which delivered landmark projects such as Gloucester Docks and Quays, Kings Square, and the new bus terminal.
With key developments like The Forum nearing completion, the University of Gloucestershire’s new campus in the former Debenhams building, and upcoming plans for the Greyfriars Quarter, now is seen as the perfect moment to chart Gloucester’s next phase of growth.
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The masterplan will concentrate on four main elements to ensure holistic development. Crucially, community engagement will be central to the process, inviting input from residents, businesses, and local groups to help shape the future of the city.
Andrew Hearne, Gloucester City Council’s Head of Place, highlighted the city’s progress and future aspirations: “Gloucester has achieved a huge amount in recent years, but momentum is building, and we’re ambitious for more. This masterplan will provide a clear roadmap for growth and regeneration to ensure the city thrives for generations to come.”
Elise Baudon, Masterplanning Director at Prior + Partners, emphasised the evolving role of city centres: “In the 21st century, city centres need to serve as places to live, work, gather, and experience culture. Gloucester has a rich heritage and a strong foundation to build upon. This masterplan offers an opportunity to refocus the city centre to meet the needs of a changing population and economy. We look forward to collaborating closely with the Council and local communities to develop a clear and actionable vision.”
Councillor Jeremy Hilton, Leader of Gloucester City Council, added: “Our goal is to create a thriving city centre that works for everyone — residents, businesses, and visitors — while honouring Gloucester’s unique heritage and future potential. We will pay special attention to streets like lower Eastgate and Northgate, which require targeted regeneration efforts.”
The final masterplan is scheduled for publication early next year, marking a significant step forward in Gloucester’s ongoing renaissance.