£1 billion Golden Valley project remains top priority for council's new cabinet

Cheltenham Borough Council has reaffirmed its ambition to 'protect the town's future' with jobs, training and opportunities for career development through its pioneering, cyber-focused Golden Valley project.

It follows the appointment of the council's new cabinet this May 2024 after the recent local election, with the allocation of new portfolios laying out who will lead on delivering the council's key aims.

Councillor Peter Jefferies, deputy leader of the council, has been given the portfolio of major developments and housing delivery. The Golden Valley project is being led by the council together with developer partner HBD.

The council has so far contributed £130 million to set the wheels in motion on what is the biggest project in its history.

It is hoped the development will see thousands of new jobs created, with plans for a million square feet of commercial space, a landmark National Cyber Innovation Centre and 1,000 new homes along with green spaces and leisure facilities.

Forming a part of the government’s National Cyber Strategy and levelling up plans, the project was also successful in securing £20 million of Levelling Up funding in November 2023 to kick start its first phase.

A planning application for the development was submitted back in November 2023, while a separate application for the National Cyber Innovation Centre is expected this year.

The council says the delivery of affordable housing, working to tackle climate change and ensuring future growth and prosperity for the town remain at the heart of its plans following the appointments.

Council leader Rowena Hay, said: 'As a forward thinking, highly ambitious council, I am proud of all that we have achieved and will continue to achieve, as I announce my new cabinet.

'Recent years have been difficult for everyone and we continue to put people and our communities first, with high-quality housing and community investment, strong partnership working and promotion of, and equal access to, healthier lifestyles.

'Our investment into Cheltenham means that the high street, in particular, continues to punch above its weight and, through Golden Valley, we are creating an internationally significant hub for cyber security, which will protect Cheltenham’s future with jobs, training and career opportunities, as well as creating a sustainable, green community helping us to achieve some of our net zero targets.

'We have a lot to do and we are excited about all that is in front of us. I am confident that under the direction and guidance of my newly formed cabinet, we are in good hands.'

To find out more about the new cabinet members and their roles, visit the council's website.