A significant development proposal aims to fill a key gap in the regeneration of Gloucester Docks with a new six-storey building featuring 141 rental apartments. The West Quay project is a collaborative effort between the Canal & River Trust and property developer bloc, envisioning a mix of one- and two-bedroom homes designed for modern, sustainable urban living.
Though no formal planning application has yet been submitted to Gloucester City Council, the H20 Urban partnership has begun engaging with the local community to gather feedback. The proposed site is bordered by Llanthony Road to the south, Severn Road to the west, and the Llanthony Lift Bridge to the east.
Currently, the site holds three warehouses and a car park. The developers plan to retain and restore the historic GWR Warehouse, repurposing it as a communal amenity and commercial hub. The new building itself would take an L-shaped form, carefully matched to the height of the neighboring warehouses to preserve the area’s character.
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A standout feature of the development is its commitment to being entirely car-free. Plans include a substantial indoor bike storage facility and dedicated e-bike charging stations. The developers highlight that, “Given the proximity of the site to a wide array of public transport options, accessible walking and cycling routes, and generous cycle storage provision, we have agreed with City Planning and Highway Officers that this is a correct and sustainable approach.”
According to details shared on the H20 Urban website, pending planning approval, construction could begin by mid-2026 and take slightly over two years to complete, aiming for a 2028 opening. A detailed Construction Management Plan will address work schedules, waste recycling, noise control, and dust reduction during the build phase.
The project supports Gloucester’s pressing need for new housing. The 141 new homes will follow the Build to Rent (BTR) model, where a single entity owns the entire building, overseeing lettings, management, and maintenance. This approach is designed to ensure consistent quality and responsive property management.
Beyond housing, the development seeks to enhance the area’s appeal for both residents and visitors with thoughtfully designed landscaping, new tree planting, and biodiversity improvements that complement the architectural style of the new and restored buildings.
Community members are invited to participate in consultations before the formal planning submission is made.
Nearby, there are also ambitious but as yet undeveloped plans for a ten-storey, 117-apartment luxury residential project at Bakers Quay by Rokeby Merchant Developments Ltd. That scheme involves partial demolition, restoration, and expansion of historic structures like Downings Malthouse and the High Orchard Street Warehouse. However, progress on that development has stalled, partly due to financial viability issues including the waiving of over £430,000 in community infrastructure levies by Gloucester City Council.
The West Quay project, with its emphasis on sustainability, heritage, and community engagement, represents a promising step forward for Gloucester Docks’ evolving waterfront.