Councils must locate sites for 25,000 new residences

Gloucester City Council, Cheltenham Borough Council, and Tewkesbury Borough Council are collaborating to identify sites for approximately 25,000 new homes over the next 20 years. Together, the three councils have a goal of building 43,000 homes within two decades, with around 18,000 already progressing through the planning system.

Alistair Cunningham, Senior Responsible Officer for the Strategic & Local Plan (SLP), emphasized the importance of public participation in the ongoing consultation, which will remain open until January. "It's vital that residents of Gloucestershire engage with this process," he stated.

Recent adjustments to government housing targets have increased pressure on local authorities to designate suitable building locations. Without approved sites, developers could submit planning applications without providing the necessary infrastructure.

The councils have compiled an extensive list of potential development sites and are now seeking feedback from the public. Cunningham stressed that input should focus on practical concerns about the suitability of sites, rather than personal objections to nearby construction. He also encouraged younger residents to share their perspectives, noting that the plan spans 20 years, and today's teenagers may eventually live in these homes.

Tewkesbury, Cheltenham, and Gloucester have a long history of joint planning through the Joint Core Strategy, which preceded the current Strategic and Local Plan. While the consultation officially closes on 16 January, full engagement opportunities will continue until June 2026. The finalized plan is expected to be submitted to the government in Autumn 2026.

Residents can follow updates via local social media channels and submit story ideas via email or WhatsApp.

Author: Sophia Brooks