Published on 23rd January 2020

Artist impression of how the cyber garden community could look

Cheltenham and Tewkesbury Borough councils are working in partnership to progress their plans to deliver a world-class development.

The site will be home to some of the UK’s top innovative and creative, digitally focused businesses, as well sustainable buildings, homes and gardens, a collaborative world-class campus – all brought together using the government’s garden community principles.

The two councils have launched a consultation about the project asking the public to have their say on a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). The document sets out important development principles including connections from existing neighbourhoods, the design of green spaces, new homes, employment spaces and community facilities. Residents and businesses are invited to view and comment on the document at any time during the consultation period up until 17 February 2020, online at cybercentral.commonplace.is

To ensure the comprehensive project is delivered to a high quality specification and in a timely manner the councils are considering the planning options available to assemble land in multiple ownership to support its delivery. As part of this first stage the councils propose to make a ‘resolution in principle’ to use their compulsory purchase powers. The resolution in principle enables surveys and land exploration to be undertaken and ensure engagement with landowners. This is usual practice for large strategic developments that are in multiple ownership.

This will be discussed by both councils; firstly by Tewkesbury Borough Council at their council meeting on Tuesday 28 January, and by Cheltenham Borough Council at their cabinet meeting on Tuesday 11 February.

Tim Atkins, senior responsible officer for the project, says: “We’re pleased that this ambitious and exciting project is moving forwards. The aim is to deliver a vibrant community, bringing high quality housing, opportunities and services to our residents and businesses, that also places Cheltenham and the wider Gloucestershire county firmly on the map as a world leader in cyber tech.

“We’d like to encourage people to take a look at the SPD masterplan and share their views with us. To do this we’d welcome comments online or join us at one of our events, where officers will be on hand to talk people through the various aspects of the masterplan. It’s really important that members of our community know that their views will be heard and used to shape the plans ahead.”

The process of selecting and appointing a development partner for Cyber Central will begin shortly. Once a developer has been appointed, detailed design work will start for the scheme, along with continued opportunities for the community to have their say and influence the proposals.

 For media enquiries to Cheltenham Borough Council, contact: communications, telephone 01242 264154, email [email protected]