Plans are underway to “future proof” Newent, a charming Gloucestershire market town, through the creation of a new transport hub designed to boost its appeal to residents and visitors alike.
Project Benedict invites local residents to share their views on a visionary initiative to improve transport and the public realm in Newent town centre. Local leaders describe Newent as “the most beautiful town in the Forest of Dean,” yet they acknowledge that the first impression many visitors get—arriving at the Lewell Street car park near Newent Lake—is underwhelming.
To address this, the area will be transformed and rebranded as St Benedict’s Square, honoring the site’s historical roots as a former Benedictine priory. The ambitious proposals include revised bus routes, upgraded shelters with live passenger information, secure cycle storage and repair facilities, electric vehicle charging points, a drinking water fountain, and a feature wall celebrating the town’s rich heritage.
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Further enhancements comprise new tree planting, pavement improvements, increased parking availability by reducing recycling bins, and better signposting to guide visitors seamlessly through town.
The consultation spearheaded by public transport advocacy group Buses4Us enjoys strong backing from Newent Town Council, Stagecoach, Gloucestershire County Council, Forest of Dean District Council, and Newent Cycle Group.
Clare Stone, chair of Buses4Us, emphasized that these improvements are essential as Newent prepares for a significant population increase, with more than 1,000 new homes expected to be built over the next two decades. Changes to the number 32 bus route, connecting Newent with Gloucester, will improve access for residents in the town’s South East, placing most bus stops within a ten-minute walk.
Stone praised Stagecoach as the “lynchpin” of the project and stressed the urgency of establishing robust public transport links before development begins. “Without strong connections to the town centre, residents in new housing areas risk being isolated,” she said. “Project Benedict lays the groundwork to future-proof Newent’s transport network.”
Beyond transport, the project aims to enhance visitors’ first impression. Stone said, “Newent is a beautiful town, arguably the prettiest in the Forest of Dean, but the current car park entrance lacks character and fails to convey a sense of place.”
The project has full support from Forest of Dean District Council’s cabinet member for property and projects, Sid Phelps, who called it “a no-brainer” and an important component of the emerging local plan.
Newent Mayor Sara Hulbert highlighted the benefits of coordinated collaboration among local organizations to serve the community better. County Councillor Gill Moseley confirmed Gloucestershire County Council’s commitment, noting a dedicated officer is already assigned to oversee the transport hub development.
Funding comes from the Government’s Bus Service Improvement Fund, contributions linked to the Picklenash Grove housing development, Gloucestershire County Council’s tree fund, and levelling up grants via Forest of Dean District Council. Additionally, a generous bequest to Buses4Us in memory of local resident Gary Vaughan—who advocated for improvements to the Lewell Street car park—has made the project more achievable.
Community members are encouraged to learn more and provide feedback on Project Benedict. Construction is anticipated to begin in late spring, marking a pivotal step toward a more connected and welcoming Newent.