On the evening of February 2, more than 200 concerned villagers packed Redmarley Village Hall to voice strong opposition to the Forest of Dean District Council’s proposal to build a 3,500-home new town at Glynchbrook, near Redmarley D’Abitot, Lowbands, and Pendock.
The council is tasked by the government with delivering 13,000 new homes by 2045, and the current draft plan includes two new settlements to meet this target. However, residents, organized under the group United Against Glynchbrook, warn that this new town would irreversibly damage heritage sites, prime farmland, landscapes, and local ecology. They highlight the site’s location near junction two of the M50 as problematic, raising fears of increased traffic and environmental harm.
Residents criticized the plan’s lack of sufficient infrastructure, particularly public transport options, pointing out a heavy dependency on cars for commuting to work, schools, and medical facilities. Phil Waring, a resident of Lowbands, voiced the community’s concerns: “Everyone recognizes the need for new homes, but quality matters. You can’t simply tick a box and build homes on a floodplain, isolated from transport links, and claim the housing problem is solved.”
READ MORE: Buckingham Palace Responds to King’s “Profound Concerns” Over Prince Andrew Allegations
READ MORE: ‘I was told I might not walk again’ – Cheltenham snowboarder Maisie Hill marks hospital discharge anniversary with Olympic debut
Villagers also expressed frustration over the limited democratic scrutiny before the draft local plan was created. Many questioned whether the recent council vote to consult on the plan was based on fully informed decisions. There were additional worries about local roads’ capacity to handle the increased traffic that the new development would bring.
Parish, district, and county councillors united with the residents, setting aside political differences to oppose the plan, which many called “ludicrous.”
Council leader Adrian Birch emphasized the importance of public participation in the upcoming consultation, which opens on February 4, 2026, and runs through March 18, 2026. He stated, “We have challenged the government’s housing target, but until it changes, we must plan for sustainable growth that reflects our community’s priorities. This consultation is a vital opportunity for residents to help shape the future of the Forest of Dean.”
The council is also inviting landowners to propose potential development sites for future consideration. Those interested can find submission forms on the council’s website.
Residents are encouraged to submit their feedback on the local plan via email at [email protected] or by mail addressed to: Local Plans Team, Forest of Dean District Council, High Street, Coleford, GL16 8HG. Responses should include the heading ‘Local Plan Consultation Response.’