Help shape the long-term future of Gloucestershire
A new Spatial Development Strategy is being developed to help plan Gloucestershire’s future. It will look at the bigger picture across the county, including where new homes and jobs could be provided, improvements to the environment, and the transport and other infrastructure needed to support communities. It will also consider issues including health and the economy.
The strategy is being developed as part of changes to the planning system introduced by government.
To help develop the strategy, Gloucestershire County Council’s cabinet has approved an initial period of engagement. This will give communities, businesses and other organisations an opportunity to say what matters should be considered on a countywide basis and help shape what the strategy should focus on before more detailed work begins.
The county council wants to hear local views before work begins on drafting the strategy. To take part in the engagement and find out more information, please visit:
https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/SDS
Drop-in sessions and webinars are being held for members of the public to find out more details:
Saturday 7 November, 10am-11am: Webinar
Monday 9 November, 7-8pm: Webinar
Tuesday 10 November, 3.30-6pm: Drop-in event at Coleford Library
Wednesday 11 November, 2-3pm: Webinar
Wednesday 18 November 3.30-6pm: Drop-in event at Cheltenham Library
Monday 23 November, 3.30-6pm: Drop-in event at Moreton Redesdale Hall
Monday 23 November, 6-7pm: Webinar
Thursday 26 November, 3.30-6pm: Drop-in event at Tewkesbury Library
Monday 30 November 3.30-6pm: Drop-in event at Gloucester Library
Friday 4 Dec 3.30-6pm: Drop-in event at Stroud Library
Friday 11 December 3.30-6pm: Drop-in event at Cirencester Library
The engagement ends on Monday 14 December 2026. It will explore a range of topics that are important to Gloucestershire's future, including climate change, the natural environment, homes, communities, infrastructure, movement and connectivity, health and economic growth.
Feedback from residents, businesses, community groups and other organisations will help identify priorities, opportunities and challenges that should be considered as the future spatial strategy develops. The strategy will be subject to a further public consultation before being submitted for independent examination.
Cllr Julian Tooke, cabinet member for business, economic development, planning and infrastructure, said: "Gloucestershire is a great place to live, work and do business, and it is important that we plan properly for the future.
"This engagement is an opportunity for residents to tell us what big issues matter most to them and how they would like to see Gloucestershire develop.
"We know there are important conversations to be had about homes, jobs, transport, infrastructure, communities and the environment. By listening to local people at an early stage, we can help ensure the strategy reflects local priorities and supports sustainable growth across the county.
"I would encourage residents, businesses, community groups and other organisations to take part and share their views as we begin shaping this long-term vision for Gloucestershire."