Gloucestershire County Council unveils ambitious plans for major new community hub at Coombe Hill

If approved by Cabinet in December, the project will see 27 acres of council-owned land transformed into a modern, multi-purpose site. The proposals include:

• A new training centre for Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service
• A state-of-the-art highways depot
• A much-needed 80-bed care home
• The sale of a small parcel of land separately for the development of around 25 new homes

The council is investing nearly £47 million in the project, which aims to deliver better services, create jobs and make the most of public resources.

The plans have been shaped by feedback from a wide range of council teams and partners. There will be the opportunity for local residents and businesses to engage with the proposals as part of the planning process, including a project engagement event.

Cllr Colin Hay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Assets and Transformation, said: ““The Coombe Hill project is a smart investment in Gloucestershire’s future. By bringing key services together – fire and rescue, highways and adult care – we’re making the most of public resources and supporting our communities. This development will provide better facilities, create jobs, deliver new homes and help us meet our long-term goals for a thriving, resilient county.”

If Cabinet approves the recommendations, the next step will be to prepare a full planning application. This will be submitted in spring/summer 2026. If planning permission is granted, development of the site is expected to begin in late 2026/early 2027.

The full agenda pack can be found here: Agenda for Cabinet on Wednesday 3 December 2025, 10.00 am