FORTY five new jobs will be created when a new store opens in next month.

Retail giant GO Outdoors will start trading at the former B&Q site in Trier Way in October.

The site has become one of the most hate eyesores in Gloucester after the doors closed in 2005.

The DIY giant moved to a new shop at the St Oswald's trading estate in the city.

Mike Williams, head of property and business acquisitions at GO Outdoors, said they were excited about the store's arrival.

Mr Williams said: "We've had successful launches recently in Bedford, Norwich and Southampton and hope the Gloucester opening will follow suit.

"Our goal is to make the outdoors accessible for people of all ages and abilities. Our team of staff is committed to giving friendly and impartial advice for every outdoor pursuit – whether you're a first-time camper or an experienced explorer."

The 41,000 sq ft store will include a five-metre climbing wall, a gait analysis machine, a 12,000sq ft tent display area and free parking for 200 cars.

GO Outdoors specialises in equipment for horse riding, walking, cycling, fishing, climbing, running and skiing and stocks thousands of products suitable for all levels of outdoor enthusiast.

The Gloucester superstore is part of GO Outdoors' 2010 expansion programme.

Gloucestershire County Councillor Sonia Friend (Lab, Barton and Tredworth) welcomed the new store, saying: "I have been campaigning for years to get something on that site and I am delighted that finally something is opening there.

"It is an added bonus that 45 jobs are being created there, I am very pleased. Hopefully it will bring more people down this end of the city too and they can sample the wonderful specialist shops we have in Barton Street."

Gloucester City councillor Said Hansdot (Lab. Barton and Tredworth) said: "It's great that we are getting this many jobs in the current economic climate, it's 45 more than we have at the moment so that's brilliant news.

"It is really good that this shop is opening there, it's been derelict for some time, so it's good news all round."


This all sounds very good, am curious to see how much they change the site. The actual store sounds quite different from anything else we have which is good news.

ONE of Gloucester's worst eyesores could soon be bulldozed and replaced by a glass-fronted restaurant.

The Citizen has learnt that plans are being hatched by the owners to turn the Golden Egg in King's Square into a top notch eatery.

The Golden Egg has sparked controversy for years with many people calling for it to be razed to the ground.

Now Gloucester City Council leader Paul James feels it is time to breathe new life into the eyesore.

He said: "It's a real blot on the landscape. We've even offered to buy the building and pay for it to be knocked down ourselves.

"I believe that the owners Aviva have their own aspirations for it and that's fine. I would just like them to get on with it as soon as possible.

"Demolishing the Golden Egg could create space for a café unit and alfresco seating, which has been so successful in other parts of the city," he said.

"In the longer term we are planning a massive transformation in the King's Quarter area but that will take some years to deliver. In the meantime it is important that we make the very best of what we have. We have recently spruced up the square with new planters, a deep clean and a refreshed market."

Mark Blackwell, owner of Pulp CD shop in King's Square, said a restaurant would be a huge boost.

He said: "If you look around King's Square, the one thing it is lacking is a restaurant or café to sit and have something to eat. They could put tables outside too.

"Building a restaurant there would be a really good idea."

But Barry Leach, chairman of the Gloucester City Centre Community Partnership, was less keen on replacing the Golden Egg.

He said: "The Golden Egg is an eyesore and it needs to be totally removed to open up the square.

"There is an empty shop unit over there, and it isn't going to be filled by a high quality outlet because all they see out of their window is this monstrosity.

"Once we get rid of it we can continue with the King's Square project."

A spokesman from Aviva declined to comment on the issue.

The building was built in the 1980s as the Golden Egg Restaurant which ceased trading around eight years ago. Since then various traders have taken up short-term lets there, particularly during Christmas.

Citizen 6/9/10

What do we think to this? I am wondering if they plan to use the unit that was The Works as the restaurant, fronting onto the square with a new glass frontage? I hope thats the plan, I dont want to see another building put here as it will still be a blockage to the square from the Kings Walk. It would be better opened up IMO

this is a bad idea in my book.. why build a new restaurant for it only to be knocked down again in a few years when they finally get round to doing Kings Quarter.. it would be a waste of time and money.. they should just knock it down and pave it over, it would cost nothing as i'm sure you could get a load of people to pull it down for nothing!

Gloucester nightclub Innteraction set to reopen as two new venues

A MAJOR city nightclub is set to reopen this autumn after standing empty for months.

Innteraction, in Bruton Way, closed at the beginning of the year.

It is now set to reopen its doors after major internal changes.

The two-floor club is now set to be turned into two separate venues.

Plans for the changes have been approved by Gloucester City Council's planning department.

They include replacing the blacked-out windows on the ground floor with transparent panes and creating a new entrance to the club.

The club is owned by Places Trading, the city company which also owns the neighbouring Pint Pot pub and the Baker Street pub in Southgate Street. The company declined to comment on the plans.

However, news that the club could reopen has been welcomed in the city.

Justin Hudson, who owns the Butler's Venue Bar on Eastgate Street, said: "It would be good to see the club opening again, at the moment Liquid is the only nightclub in the city.

"It will be good to add something different to the city's late-night offering."

Councillor Paul James, leader of Gloucester City Council, said: "It is good news if the club is set to open again. It does show how flexible you have to be in this day and age in order to cope with the changing markets.

"The night-time economy is really important both for jobs and for making the city an attractive place to visit, and it is vital to have a well-balanced offering. Anything the new venue can do to help us reach that can only be good news."

Regular clubber Gemma Holmes, 18, from Huntley, welcomed the news.

She said: "It will be great to get a new club open, we need more variety in the city."


Some more good news for the city. Must admit, I didnt realise this had closed!

Pharmj and davejack82

I agree this is a surprise but one that blows a big hole in the re-design of the Kings area.
But I think they have no chance in getting a "top" restaurant in the building and the re-build of a glass fronted building would be a waste of money that I dont see Aviva doing. I think its ploy to boost the value of the building a bit like the Bishops development by the Quays.

It also to me sums up the Council's inability to deliver on this whole issue. To think that Since January of this year the "announcement" on a developer for the KQ area was only "weeks away". I suspect January 2011 will herald the same announcement of a forthcoming announcement.

Shame Peel Holdings dont own Kings Walk - perhaps instead of the Quays we would have a redesigned Kings Quarter!

Looks as if 2 new food outlets are lined up at the Quays.
Unit 71 - the ex All Things Chocolate unit appears to have been let - not sure of details on this one.
I heard a couple of months ago that a local independant business were planning to open a Restaurant in units 99b and 100 (GR0UND FLOOR OF THE ANTIQUES CENTRE BUILDING).
Had not anything since but I noticed that workmen were doing something in these units last week.
It should be intersting to see the results as the the rumoured new tennants opened an excellent Cafe/Coffee shop within the Docks area earlier this year - they should do well.

Jas1, that sounds interesting news and certainly ties in with the Richard Rawlings, Quays Centre Manager interview on BBC Glos around 3 weeks ago about two food operators have gone into legal documentation. *Still hoping and most likely these should be up and running for the busy Christmas period.

Interesting your point about the owners of the existing café/shop within the docks, do you know if it Café Corretto and Tuccini? *The reason I pick up this point that I also heard via a docks resident that the excellent located Shipton Square restaurant unit was also let to one of these cafes but unfortunately only being used as a store room! ***

Looks as if 2 new food outlets are lined up at the Quays.
Unit 71 - the ex All Things Chocolate unit appears to have been let - not sure of details on this one.
I heard a couple of months ago that a local independant business were planning to open a Restaurant in units 99b and 100 (GR0UND FLOOR OF THE ANTIQUES CENTRE BUILDING).
Had not anything since but I noticed that workmen were doing something in these units last week.
It should be intersting to see the results as the the rumoured new tennants opened an excellent Cafe/Coffee shop within the Docks area earlier this year - they should do well.

gntzpope,my understanding is that it is the owners of Caffe Corretto that are planning to open up a Restaurant in units 99b and 100.
They have done a great job with Caffe Corretto, I should imagine that their new Resteraunt will be pretty impressive in what is an important strategic site
for the development of the potential new Bar and Restaurant quarter.
Their opening will hopefully draw other other businesses to the area,it really needs a Bar to open to complement the three (hopefully) restaurants.
I'm pretty sure that Cafe Tucci has links with the unit at the barge arm.I understand that the owners plan to open a Restaurant in this unit but are waiting for things to pick up a bit.

Interesting news. Caffe Corretto is always extremely busy so that is good news. It also provides a nice balance to the national stores and restuarants having some local ones too. I hope we start to see some movement and announcments on new retailers. We need Christmas to be bumper in Gloucester this year, show the city has weathered the storm of recession alright.

Really impressed with the work done to the old Dunelm Mill building in Bruton Way. The new windows have given the building such a lift, and the railings tidy the area up no end.. hope some movement happens with the former Courts building converting that and of course the former Kwik Save site..

Sounds excellent, any chance that anyone can get some photos? It's gonna be a while before I think i'll be able to get back to Gloucester.

Hopefully we'll hear some news on Kings Square and Blackfriars soon...been a while since we had some major news for these.

http://i746.photobucket.com/albums/xx106/atters72/1285159118262.jpg

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Took the 3 photos above today. Seems to be all linking in quite nicely. Disappointed that wont be finished until mid December but everything seems to have a quality look to it so will be worth waiting for the finished product. Was very busy around the docks again today.

Thanks for those photos atters..it looks really nice down there.

The finish looks lovely, I think that will be a real asset to Gloucester.

I am not too worried about the work over-running, it's no surprise given how much they have had to do. I agree with the council that getting the job finished is better than leaving it half-done over the Christmas period

Confirmation of Domino's move to St Oswald's Retail Park.

"A TAKEAWAY food outlet is moving from Gloucester city centre to a retail park – filling the last empty shop.

Domino's Pizza is set to close its Northgate Street shop in favour of a new unit at St Oswald's Retail Park.

The company says filling the last available unit at the development will provide a better location, while community figures have welcomed the move.

Gloucester City Council leader Paul James (C, Longlevens), who is responsible for regeneration, welcomed the announcement.

He said: "It's certainly good news that the last remaining unit at St Oswald's has been filled.

"It goes to show what a successful development it has been and it has transformed what was one of the city's eyesores into a busy business and leisure park."

Councillors gave permission for the use of the building to change from a restaurant to a takeaway in May, casting aside fears it could cause anti-social behaviour and vermin.

The development has also won support from a ward councillor.

Councillor Pam Tracey (C, Westgate) said: "If it fills a vacant space it has to be good news.

"I don't eat pizza, but I'm sure people around St Oswald's will enjoy it and staff from other shops on the site will be able to pick one up after work.

"When it opened up the idea was to have some eateries there like Subway and Costa, and Domino's will be another one."

The 35,000sq metre park, which is north of the city centre, opened in September 2005.

But the unit in question has been empty for months.

A Domino's spokesman said: "We are relocating to St Oswald's retail park.

"We haven't got a confirmed date yet but we hope to be open within a few months."


Taken from thisisgloucestershire 25/9/10

Hopefully now that this unit will be empty on Northgate street that will free up this site to be redeveloped. The site is long overdue to be renewed and some decent flats in the area should really bring that end of town up

SHOPPERS and business leaders have welcomed a sudden surge of new retailers opening up in Gloucester.

Since the opening of the Gifts Direct store in the former Hawkshead building on The Cross, another four premises have either opened or are set to open.

First Choice travel agents will soon start trading in the former Early Learning Centre store on Eastgate Street, while both Virgin Media and Amber Clothing have opened in King's Walk.

A fifth empty retail unit will be reopened this morning at 11am, when the Marie Curie cancer charity shop also opens in King's Walk.

Shopper Kerry Williamson, 29, from Tredworth, said the news was good for shoppers.

She said: "The more shops we can get into the city centre, the better. We don't have a bad selection these days."

Mark Owen, chairman of Gloucester's Federation of Small Businesses, said: "It is excellent news for the city and it highlights that Gloucester is bucking the trend.

"It also comes on the back of the fantastic news that the old B&Q site is being renovated and opened up by Go Outdoors and work is going on to convert the old Courts store, and plans for the former Kwik Save.

"It shows retailers from across the country are realising that Gloucester has a strong retail future, and we should support our city as much as possible by shopping here."

Council chiefs are also pleased with the retail boost.

Councillor Paul James, leader of Gloucester City Council, said: "It shows a sense of confidence in our city's future."

Councillor Jeremy Hilton, who represents the area on Gloucestershire County Council, said: "It is encouraging to see new businesses opening. However, the big one we want to see filled is the old Woolworths store."

It is believed Marks & Spencer will take over the site next year. Although it has not confirmed plans to relocate to the Eastgate Street venue.

All sounds good. Not so sure about Marie Curie but at least it isnt an empty unit i guess

Gloucester Docks

from yesterday

http://inlinethumb04.webshots.com/34691/2456954900103910071S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2456954900103910071BkrVOi)

http://inlinethumb02.webshots.com/44161/2483098360103910071S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2483098360103910071vUqFnD)

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Maplins Electronics look set to open up in the ex-Apollo unit on Eastern Avenue next to the existing Staples store :)

Also, Webbs of Wyncbold are set to open a Christmas store in the ex-Iceberg/Rock Couture store in the Quays sometime before the end of Oct until Jan 11.

Any more news on the rumoured two more food outlets? Anyone?

Plans were unveiled for the new Greyfriers Quarter of Gloucester by Linden Homes.

Mainly residential, it is arranged in blocks. The (small-sorry!) plan below gives an idea of layout:

http://www.gloucesterurc.co.uk/Images/greyfriars.jpg
Brunswick road is running down the right hand side of the plan.

National Housebuilder Linden Homes are now finalising the scheme designs for the redevelopment of the former Gloscol sites at Greyfriars, with a view to submitting a planning application by the end of the year.

Proposals for the Greyfriars site, will create a new residential neighbourhood of approximately 269 new family homes and apartments in a mix of styles and sizes, set alongside cafés, restaurants and community facilities. New public squares and open spaces set around the ruins of Greyfriars Priory and other nearby historic buildings will provide shoppers, tourists and residents alike with restful havens in the centre of the city.

Is there any more news on the Cineworld refurbishment?

While visiting my home town, took a chance to wander around the city centre.

Former Dunelm building is being restored by Architectural firm Roberts Limbrick, to then be used as their own offices. Black railings have been put up the secure the car park and new Grey windows put in, plus the stonework has been restored. I must say, the building looks fantastic!

Gloucester Quays seemed fairly busy with half term families having a wander round. The Webbs Christmas shop is a very good idea and seemed busy. The Calender Store have also taken a unit there.

The work on the docks is looking excellent. The paving and the lights is top quality and this looks as though it will be sorted in time for Christmas. The Kimbrose triangle is getting there, the art wall still needs to be build but the majority of the road aspects have been done. Hoardins have gone around the Language Immersion Centre site with another 'Magnificent Seven sign detailing the site. The new look Southgate street is also of very high quality.

On southgate street itself, New County Hotel is having a facelift and looking good for it. Something appears to be happening in the unit on the corner opposite the Tourist Info, but not sure what. The new flats next to Prezzo that used to be Cargo Homewares are also looking top quality.

Was dissapointed by Gifts Direct that opened on the cross. Store looks a mess and the signs are temporary and look crap. Not the best for a prominent site, only marginally better than the empty store was. Kings walk was very busy, very few empty units around the Eastgate area generally.

Overall: Gloucester seems to be weathering the recession pretty well.

Apparently an announcement is due very soon on the £350 million Kings Quarter developer

The ex-All Things Chocolate cafe is to become an O'Briens Gourmet Coffee and Handcut Sandwich Bar. They are a Irish chain and have stores worldwide.

This must be one of the two operators we heard had gone into legal docum. that was reported in Aug. Interestingly, the O'Briens chain was one of the retailers that were on the original leaked floor plan of spring '09 when the economy crashed. Here's hooping the rest will come back in time as things pick up :)

Planning applications have been submitted in GCC.

Another unit has been let to 'Holland And Barrett', Unit 66b in between Melka and Roman Originals ;)

Is there any more news on the Cineworld refurbishment?

I keep on wishing we would hear some news too Gingechiilla!! It's owned by Peel Investments and obviously operating by Cineworld but unsure what's the holding factor here. Planning applications were approved back in the summer of 2008, valid for 3 years I believe.

Have submitted impressive plans into GCC for a whole new two storey rowing club and car parking. Looks good to me.

Hey guys, I was in Gloucester last weekend and I have to say I was quite impressed with the quays, it’s a nice development. The lifting bridges make it quite an interesting area to walk around and I’m guessing the college gives it some life during the week. Pizza Express, as ever, was superb. Planning a return visit for kitchen supplies, I’ve never been anywhere with such a concentration of kitchen shops.

You might be interested in this;
A South of England sub-forum. (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=66136245#post66136245)

Any input from you guys would be appreciated.

the steels are up for the new coroners court complex just off Walls Roundabout, and with the new Ibis Hotel opening next door things look good for the area..
http://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/media/images/e/n/Image3_web_size.jpg
http://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/media/images/e/4/Image7-Aerial_web_size.jpg

http://i.thisis.co.uk/275540/article/images/2702713/1801048.jpg

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=97684

the new GO Outdoors store has been open for a month or so now and from what i can see is doing a really good trade..
http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/Lib/Img/Stores/gloucester/gloucester_01.jpg

Go Outdoors was a fantastic shop when i went in.

Public realm work between the Quays and Southgate street was looking awesome last time i was in the city a few weeks ago.

New cororners centre looks good from the plans i think, and its good to have that space used by something useful. The IBIS has turned out really well too. Good to see projects still happening despite the recession.

New Tesco Quedgley has opened, bit disappointing, just a large white box now. Extension to Tesco Brockworth has also opened..both now very large stores.

Debate has started about the public art that is being installed in Whittle Square as part of the development alongside the Tesco in Brockworth. Work has started on the first couple of blocks of the residential aspect to this development

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/localnews/gloucester/Gloucester-city-centre-eyesore-set-demolition/article-2986225-detail/article.html

Good news work set to start soon..

Work has begun on the Merchants Quay after several months of inactivity, looked like they were laying the foundations.. Also saw abit of activity by the Malt houses next to the Quays, could be a start of works on this site to..
Has anyone seen the new trees planted at the Docks? check them out, never seen anything like them before, really unusual but a great addition...

The trees alongside Victoria basin do look odd, they appear to have a wooden in frame in place to support the upper branches.
Kimbrose steps opened today and I must admit things are looking early impressive - the Crane that's been sited is an extra point of interest.
Even the Candle has grown on me, it looks far more impressive if you approach it via Kimbrose steps, the only disappointing aspect is that the dim white illumination makes it appear a bit of a damp-squib in the dark, although the rest of the area is well lit up.
The units above O'Briens have been converted into offices - a Nursing agency and building recruitment agency moved in last weekend and Gloucestershire First are due to move into Llanthony Warehouse in January (from their current offices in Shurdington) - should all help add vibrancy to the area.
It all seems to have gone quiet on the Restaurant that was due to open below the Antiques Centre.
Southgate Street is starting to look good (some strange looking lampposts have appeared) and it was good to see the New County Bar looked busy this afternoon/early evening.

Hello. Just thought i'd offer my services. I work in Gloucester area, and so can provide occassional photos on anything you might want to see.

http://i746.photobucket.com/albums/xx106/atters72/1292687694554-orig.jpg

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Most of it looks really good down there. Really hope the lighting of the candle isnt just whats on at the moment. I thought it was going to be properly illuminated once it was unveiled on the completion of the works in the new year...

http://i746.photobucket.com/albums/xx106/atters72/1292687737054-1.jpg

This looks extremley pretty! Well done Gloucester and thankyou for the photo atters! I am well excited to head down there and see it for myself!

Merry Christmas Gloucester!

We might be seeing refurb/redevelopment of Gloucester Station sooner than we thought...

A fire broke out in the booking office of Gloucester railway station in the early hours.

Crews were called to the two-storey building on Bruton Way just before 0130 GMT. The ground floor was severely damaged.

A 17-year-old male from Cheltenham has been arrested on suspicion of arson.

The station was closed during the incident but partially reopened later, the fire service said.

Passengers are advised to check their journey before travelling.

http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/50624000/jpg/_50624259_50624258.jpg

Taken from BBC News 31/12/10

Looks as if some new openings are lined up at Gloucester Quays in the new year.
I understand that Jeff Banks are opening up in the ex- Suits for You unit and another January opening seems likely to be Holland and Barratt- hopefully more will follow.
There are also apparently 3 food operators due to open before Easter, names still to be confirmed.(there is a planning application in for ventilation, new signs , etc. in one of the new build units facing Llanthony Road).
A planning application is due to be submitted shortly for a large ( approx. 750sqm) Martson's Pub/Restaurant on the site by the new Canal Bridge and Sainsbury's.
Visited the Quays on Tuesday afternoon, the entire centre seemed extremely busy with long queues at several shops, Monday was apparently also very busy.It seemed much busier than this time last year.
Hopefully this is sign of things to come.
It will be interesting to see what happens with the Northgate mansions site following the building collapse.
I vaguely recall a planning application a couple of years ago to demolish it and replace with new build but I believe the application was withdrawn.

Great update there Jas1, we were there yesterday and it was busy too, the ex-Suits You unit is set to become Suits Direct store opening 10th Jan according to signage inside. The Holland & Barrett likely to named an H&B outlet is set to go in between Roman Originals and Melka.

I am intrigued about the three food operators you mention, do you have an application ref. No. for the new unit mention? Is that for the large one beneath the Antiques Center or further along towards Llanthony bridge?

Great progress with relation to the Marston's Pub/Restaurant on the land between Llanthony Secunda and Sainsburys. I see the application for the road improvements off the junction have already gone in.

My wishes for 2011 for a number of projects/sites are:

Development partner finally announced for the Kings Quarter, redevelopment of the Eastgate St. Center by the new owners including M&S taking over the ex-Woolworths site, Greyfriars on-site, Blackfriars progressed with the Immersion Center compete, 4 star operator announced along with finalised plans for the Fleece hotel etc. redevelopment.

Additional, the Cineworld refurbishment and extension, the heating is still not working in 3 of screens, it has been like that for 3 years now I believe! I enquired about this last Christmas and they said they are awaiting the redevelopement, 12 months later nothing :(. It's looking very tired now and dare I say it a dump of a cinema compared to Stroud's Apollo and Chelt's Cineworld. Gloucester deserves much better than this for it's size, Cineworld? Peel Investments? Whoever, please progress and stop the loss of custom to other cinemas and towns!!! I know it's happening.

More stores and restaurants opening in the Quays, uodating of the Peel Center as announced two years ago.

As for the Bishops site adjacent to the Quays, I don't believe a thing they say anymore, lots of plans, press coverage in the Citizen, screening of high res buildings whilst planning investigations were carried out and yet absolutely nothing has happened. Thanks for continuing to show the rest of county and rest of the visitors to the Quays what a eyesore Gloucester still has here!! Rant over :(

Anyway, wish you all a great 2011 and hope Gloucester can continue to improve with such great potential with all these projects/plans for which we all here want and to enjoy in the future!!!

Great pictures Atters72 of the docks in the snow, keep them coming!

Looks as if some new openings are lined up at Gloucester Quays in the new year.
I understand that Jeff Banks are opening up in the ex- Suits for You unit and another January opening seems likely to be Holland and Barratt- hopefully more will follow.
There are also apparently 3 food operators due to open before Easter, names still to be confirmed.(there is a planning application in for ventilation, new signs , etc. in one of the new build units facing Llanthony Road).
A planning application is due to be submitted shortly for a large ( approx. 750sqm) Martson's Pub/Restaurant on the site by the new Canal Bridge and Sainsbury's.
Visited the Quays on Tuesday afternoon, the entire centre seemed extremely busy with long queues at several shops, Monday was apparently also very busy.It seemed much busier than this time last year.
Hopefully this is sign of things to come.
It will be interesting to see what happens with the Northgate mansions site following the building collapse.
I vaguely recall a planning application a couple of years ago to demolish it and replace with new build but I believe the application was withdrawn.

I take it that's a 'no' then, to my earlier offer...:lol:

Sorry Schmeek, didnt see the previous post! Photos are always really welcome as I dont live in the city so dont get to see updates as much as I would like.

Wouldnt mind seeing how the old Dunelm looks now its been restored

taken from thisisgloucestershire,

"'Iconic' rowing club gets go-ahead

PLANS for a state-of-the-art "iconic" rowing club in Gloucester have been approved.

The new four-story facility, which will be built off David Hook Way in Hempsted, was unanimously backed at Gloucester city's planning committee meeting this week.

It will house a boathouse on the ground and first floors, with a function room, lounge, bar, kitchen and changing rooms on the second floor, and a fitness suite on the third.

As part of the development of the site the canal path will be slightly diverted, a car park with 106 spaces will be constructed, and work will be done to protect the building in the event of flooding.

Treasurer of Gloucester Rowing Club, Stephen Rose, said: "This will not only be a facility for the club, but for the community too.

"We have been searching for a site for a new facility since 1981 so we're delighted we have found one.

"We are aspiring for the top level of the sport, and this will help us no end."

The site will be built next to the Hempsted Meadows Market and car boot sale area.

At the meeting held at the North Warehouse on Tuesday, Councillor Gerald Dee (Con. Tuffley) said: "I think it's important that something iconic happens in this area.

"It will encourage more activities and will bring more people to the city."

Councillor Fred Wood (Con. Quedgeley Fieldcourt) said: "We have got a team of people here who are world class and we should be proud of that."

Councillor Usman Bhaimia (Lib Dem. Barton and Tredworth) has also backed the proposal.

He said: "The plans look really good and I think this will enhance the city's image." "

Jet-Age Museum could finally get a new home!

Jet Age Museum plans approved for new Gloucester home

The Jet Age Museum could have a permanent home after planners approved its move to Gloucestershire Airport.

Tewkesbury Borough Council agreed to the erection of a new 30m by 20m (98ft by 66ft) hangar to house the museum's collection of historic aircraft.

Museum chairman John Lewer said he was delighted as it was "the furthest we've ever been able to go with our project".

The Secretary of State will now have the final say as the proposals would see the hangar built on greenbelt land.

The museum's collection of historic aircraft has been stored in temporary accommodation including the Tithe Barn Centre at Brockworth and a farm at Churcham, since 2000.

It was forced out of its previous home when the airport expanded.

Mr Lewer added: "Subject to us raising a little more money and approval by the Secretary of State we will hopefully go ahead later this year with a permanent home for the museum."

Taken from BBC news 6/1/11

Announced this morning by the GCC after a meeting with Stanhope PLC, a major developer with exclusivity going forward.

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/news/Regeneration-Gloucester-s-King-s-Square-gets-green-light/article-3143104-detail/article.html

Great news, so long overdue!! :)

Some more detail on the provisional deal struck:

Stanhope has been appointed for the retail-led regeneration of the Kings Quarter area of Gloucester city centre

The site, bordered by Bruton Way and Northgate Street, and covering King’s Square and the bus station, could incorporate up to 250,000 sq ft of new retail space. The scheme is likely to include new shops, bars and restaurants, residential and office facilities, as well as high quality public squares and spaces, parking and a brand new bus station.

Paul James, leader of Gloucester City Council and cabinet member for regeneration said: “Kings Quarter is the top regeneration priority for Gloucester City Council and will radically transform and upgrade a tired part of the city centre. Once delivered it will give a massive boost to the city’s economy and its performance as a shopping and leisure destination. These are early days and there is a long way to go but we are delighted to be working with Stanhope plc, which has a very impressive track record.”

Stanhope chairman Martyn Chase said “ Gloucester is a great historic city but it doesn’t currently have the right size and quality of units to satisfy modern retailers. It needs a quality King’s Quarter scheme to reach its full potential and get the city centre performing at its best. We have a strong track record in city centre development and are looking forward to getting to work on this project with Gloucester.”

Will be interesting to see what concept they come up with and what kind of stores they could attract the the scheme.

Some more details from Property Week, like the 2012 planning application with the aim to deliver during 2014, sounds sporty but would be so, so great for Gloucester.

Stanhope has signed a development agreement with Gloucester City Council to develop the 250,000 sq ft King’s Quarter shopping centre scheme.

The developer is now working with the council to draw up a master plan for the retail scheme, which is expected to have an end value of more than £50m.

Stanhope will look to submit a planning application during 2012, with the aim of delivering the scheme in 2014.

The deal to develop the Gloucester scheme comes only two weeks after Stanhope announced it had teamed up with LaSalle Investment Management to deliver the 300,000 sq ft retail scheme on Pydar Street, in Truro.

Stanhope is awaiting a planning decision in March on its 300,000 sq ft Hereford Old Livestock Market scheme, which is the developer’s first retail project.

Alistair Shaw, retail development director at Stanhope, said: “Gloucester has a big catchment and we feel it has a shortage of good quality retail supply because a lot of retailers are trying to compete from historic buildings so it’s very difficult to get big modern units.”

http://www.propertyweek.com/news/news-by-sector/retail/stanhope-to-develop-gloucester-shopping-centre/5012696.article

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/news/Jobs-boost-Gloucester-railway-triangle-plans-unveiled/article-3200670-detail/article.html


Well looks like something will finally happen at the railway triangle. I'm not sure there is a real need for a new supermarket at this location though with Asda no more than 500yards down the road, Sainsbury, lidl and another morrisons within 10mins drive. i feel a Waitrose would be something different however and if they could of had a John Lewis next door all the better.. I guess we'll have to wait and see how far these plans get and if Asda has anything to say about them...

I agree davejack,

I am not convinced another supermarket is a good idea, and light industrial to me also seems like a cop-out. this is a wasted opportunity I think. Hope they reconsider. As much as i want the area developed, it needs to be right.

http://glcstrplnng12.co.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=LFXNGTHM0BR00
11/00107/FUL - not sure if the link works!
This is the 250 document planning app for greyfriars and the media site. Excellent stuff.

Also from a personal point of view I have been waiting for this news since 2007, about time to, 205 in attendance last night at Whaddon Road, not good enough for the Football Club's coffers.

'GLOUCESTER City are to submit plans for a new stadium near to the site of their old Meadow Park ground at the end of the month.

The club are today informing their near neighbours of their ambitious plan for a community stadium and are inviting people to view the plans at a consultation event on Tuesday, February 22.' ( at Hempsted Village Hall )

Hi all, have recently set up a Twiiter account to do quick updates on developments as they happen, especially for those who twitter on there smart phones like iPhones and Blackberry's etc.

If you would like to follow my updates please search for GlosRenaissance

Cheers for now, still intend to post here too thou.

Planning application submitted for demolition of Golden egg building.

gntzpope , apologies for delay in reply to your question. from memory I'm pretty sure it was unit 87 smallish unit close to Llanthony Bridge that I came across planning information for - although I have just tried to check and are having trouble finding it.
I will check again when I have bit bit more time and confirm.

Think that's great news about the Golden Egg building, long overdue.
It will really open up the area in prep for the major development.

Jas, really intrigued about the info about unit 87, I know exactly which unit you mean. Hope you can recall the info?

Another application has been submitted too, this time for the demolition of the building comprising the public toilets and a retail unit!!

http://www.gloucestercityafc.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/glos1.jpg

http://www.gloucestercityafc.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/glos2.jpg

sorry about the size them couldn't work out how to make them smaller!

hi, been following this thread for a while now but only just decided to make an account.
found some interesting pictures of the Black Dog Way developments on Roberts Limbrick architects website http://www.robertslimbrick.com/portfolio_residential.html can't embed them though becuase it's flash

Demolition of the BT Repeater Station

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/P1070774.jpg?t=1300817301

Steel nearly complete on Language Centre

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/P1070773.jpg?t=1300817301

Next demolition - Printer Building & Gloscat Tower in the distance. Steel from Language Centre visible

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/P1070776.jpg?t=1300817301

First Great Western Managing Director Mark Hopwood warmly welcomed the decision to upgrade the line from London to Gloucester and Cheltenham as ‘fantastic news’, which would mean significant improvements to performance as well as more frequent services.

He added: “The news supports the potential to enhance our Paddington to Cheltenham Spa services via Kemble to hourly all day once the new InterCity Express trains are available in 2016.



http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t293/sp23tsr6/Super_Express_Ext2.jpg

new hitachi bi-mode express units

Double Two are opening a unit at Gloucester Quays. They appear to specialise in men's and women's shirts. Good news and another unit filled. Hopefully we'll see more units open as the retail sector starts to pick up again.

Karibos Shoe Warehouse are opening on Northgate Street, a couple of doors down from HSBC at the Cross, application for signage has gone in.

Sainsburys Northgate Street have put in applications for new signs and shopfronts for both entrances, bringing the store in line with the modern image of the company.

Subway Sandwiches are taking the corner unit into Kings Square (former Gifts Direct store) with an application for signage going in. This will be good bringing more seating and eateries into the square.

Planning has also gone in for all new signage for the Eastgate Shopping centre. Signs will also include banners on the box-windows that stick out onto Eastgate street, giving the mall a fresh new look. The centre has been renamed 'The Eastgate'. New website launches in a few days http://www.intoeastgate.co.uk/

Few small pieces of good news from the city.

TWO of Gloucester's biggest eyesores are set to be razed in weeks.

Plans have been unanimously approved to demolish both the infamous Golden Egg building and the disabled toilets in King's Square.

Gloucester City Council's planning committee agreed both applications this week, and council leader Paul James now expects "work to start within weeks rather than months".

He added: "I'm very pleased that both applications have been approved and I'm very keen to see these blots on the landscape removed as quickly as possible."

Speed

At Tuesday's meeting, at Gloucester Docks, councillors welcomed the applications with open arms.

Geraldene Gillespie (Lab, Moreland), who is stepping down as councillor in May, said: "I can't think of a better end to my 16 years on planning than to vote to destroy this monstrosity.

"It will be a delight to have that open space."

Mary Smith (Lab. Matson and Robinswood) said: "The Golden Egg is horrible, really, really horrid and I think this is a wonderful application."

Both applications were made by building owners Aviva Life and Pensions Ltd.

The disabled toilets and music shop Pulp, built in the 1970s, will be demolished, the underground toilets filled in, and a grassed area created.

Once the Golden Egg is demolished, with the walkway which joins it to King's Walk, paving slabs will be laid and a hand rail installed.

Developer Stanhope PLC is currently working on plans for the King's Quarter site, which is bordered by Bruton Way and Northgate Street and covers King's Square and the bus station. The council has set aside £1.5 million for the scheme.

Gloucester City Centre Community Partnership secretary Barry Leach met with developers to discuss ideas.

He said the demolition of the buildings was "the first step on a long road".

Traders in King's Square also welcomed the news.

Donna Yates, area sales manager at Jane's Pantry in King's Walk, said: "This is great news, the Golden Egg especially has been an eyesore for so long.

"Whatever goes in there instead will be better, but we need to bring more people to this end of the city.

"There is a lot of work going on at the Quays and at that end of the city and we have been forgotten."

Stanhope PLC was unavailable for comment.

City to get vital properties

The Government has agreed that property assets crucial to the regeneration of Gloucester can be transferred to the city council.

Various property including much of Gloucester Docks, Barbican car park, the historic Fleece Hotel and property in Commercial Road currently belongs to the South West Regional Development Agency – which is being abolished.

It had been feared that the assets could be sold by the cash strapped Government in a "fire sale."

This would have put these properties back into the private sector, which could cause major obstables to Gloucester's crucial regeneration plans.

But now the Government has agreed the assets can be transferred to the city council which will help keep the ten year regeneration programme-currently half way through completion-on track.

It also means that Gloucester Heritage Urban Regeneration Company which is leading the regeneration can continue with vital funding coming from car park revenue. GHURC has had to cut staff and is now under the wing of the city council.

From thisisgloucestershire 8/4/11

Thanks fot the update Parmjit. Saw that in the citizen this morning.

http://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=14944

Above ref to the Elmbridge court development. Seems to be a large scale highway project. When looking at the final case document for 2009, could someone clarify if the park and ride is to be at the end of Golden Valley or opposite Tenpin?

Thanks to Davejack for posting the pics of Glos City FC. Mt have I been waiting a while for that anouncement. Planning should actually be with the City Council in the new few weeks, as per this weblink
http://cof.tigerroar.co.uk/showthread.php?1590-Planning-Application

Visiting my hometown this week so taken the opportunity to take some photographs and have a wander around.

Subway in Kings Square are open and were very busy. The double unit they have taken looks much better now. Chambers pub has been done up outside with a fresh coat of paint. Looks much better!

Debenhams have started their multi-million refurb with the escalators being replaced. The departments are all jiggled around at the moment and planning has gone in for new signage on all the entrances and on the front.

Here are the photos taken today:

Firstly around the new public realm at the docks...

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0476.jpg?t=1303403033
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0477.jpg?t=1303403055
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0478.jpg?t=1303403083
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0479.jpg?t=1303403113
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0481.jpg?t=1303403135


Former Gloucester Yacht Club looks like it's having some work done to it..
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0482.jpg?t=1303403162

New shared traffic/pedestrian area at Southgate/Kimbrose Junction
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0483.jpg?t=1303403261
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0484.jpg?t=1303403276
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0486.jpg?t=1303403317

Language Immersion Centre coming on well
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0487.jpg?t=1303403343

Southgate Street
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0485.jpg?t=1303403294
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0488.jpg?t=1303403374

Demo work still taking place on buildings at Blackfriars. Makes me realise how much land there actually is in there!
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0489.jpg?t=1303403422
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_0490.jpg?t=1303403438

Anyone know when the old Gloscat tower is coming down? it was reported to be the end of March but i haven't seen any action yet..

Dave
Hoarding has been erected, and demolition Contractor is now on site. Internal strip out first which means there is a 10m pile of blinds, furniture, carpets etc between the Tower and the Front Block.

cheers haven't been down that way for a few weeks, glad to hear it's moving on. be even better when it's down!

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/news/Marks-Spencer-old-Woolworths-site-Gloucester/article-3571517-detail/article.html


Finally confirmed!

Photo's from lunch time - cleared site after demo of BT & Printer Building, progress on Fielden Clegg Bradley's LRC and also start of demo on GLOSCAT site - another FCB project.

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/P1080056.jpg?t=1306424692

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/P1080058.jpg?t=1306424692

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/P1080059.jpg?t=1306424692

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/P1080061.jpg?t=1306424692

i noticed a sign up on one of the buildings on the land owned by the Bishop family just of St Ann way saying 'For Sale'. not noticed it before so must of only gone up in the past couple of weeks. anyone got any details?

Photos today of the Crest Nicholson Development at Merchants Quay, Gloucester Docks.

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/P1080067.jpg?t=1306502046

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/P1080066.jpg?t=1306502046

A SUPERMARKET giant is planing a new £25million store in Gloucester.

Tesco is going to demolish its existing St Oswald's Retail Park store and create a new one three times the size.

The move will create 160 new jobs, providing a massive boost to the city's economy.

The firm is going to use the land on the current site as a car park, with 900 spaces available, and has pledged the new 113,000 sq ft store will have a "striking design".

The flagship building will sit on land directly behind the existing one.

The plans have been lauded as "a vote of confidence in Gloucester".

The new store is expected to be up and running by November next year with an expanded range of groceries, food and non-food items.

Sophie Akokhia, corporate affairs manager at Tesco, said: "We would like to bring the very latest concept in Tesco shopping to Gloucester and we think the site is the perfect location for this.

"We already have a successful and popular store on St Oswald's Road and would now like to take this to the next level by expanding the range and choice of shopping available in a strikingly designed, flagship store for the South West."

Tesco will also construct two new retail units on the site which will be available to independent traders.

The company said the move was down to the current store being very popular, although it will not release figures.

It revealed the scheme to a meeting of city leaders last week, and is going to submit a planning application by July.

Councillor Paul James, leader of Gloucester City Council, said: "It's very good news, and a real sign of confidence in Gloucester.

"The new jobs it will create is a real boost. I think it's a great reflection on the retail park .

"Ten years ago it was an eyesore, and now, without doubt, it is the most successful in the city."

The current store will only be demolished when the new one is ready to open.

Hugh Worsnip, from Gloucester Civic Trust, said: "We welcome Tesco's confidence in Gloucester in planning such a huge investment, but they are proposing a huge site which needs very careful design and siting."

Although generally I am hostile to Tesco, I am not as concerned about this as it is a replacement for a store that is already there. Good to see confidence in that area.

They are also planning on taking over One Stop in Market Parade, turning it into a Tesco Express.

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/King-s-Square-development-Stanhope-PLC-pledge/story-12843946-detail/story.html


roll on 2017... or as this is gloucester 2025 :)

http://www.stridetreglown.co.uk/projects/residential/67-merchants-quay-gloucester.html

A planning application has been made to Gloucester City Council for a microbrewery at an existing Waterways Museum workshop at Llanthony Warehouse in the Docks.

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/Plans-drawn-microbrewery-Gloucester/story-12889462-detail/story.html

What a great idea!

Pilot, a shop which specialises in teen and young ladieswear, opened at the Quays on Saturday 2nd July.

I can't believe that there are not more restaurant chains looking at investing in the Quays; as Pizza Express and Nandos are always jam packed when I'm there.

From Egi yesterday:

Stanhope goes ahead in Gloucester
Annabel Dixon 07/07/2011 12:45

Developer Stanhope was approved as Gloucester council's partner for the £70m redevelopment of the city's King's Quarter scheme at a cabinet meeting last night.

Council officers and Stanhope have been working together for the past six months to come forward with a concept for King's Quarter - principally King's Square and the bus station.

The 200,000 sq ft scheme (pictured), which has an investment value of £60m, will comprise five big stores and 21 smaller shops and a bus station.

Stanhope will now start to undertake a full public consultation programme. Work is anticipated to start on site in 2014, and the scheme could take two to three years to be fully completed.

Martyn Chase, director at Stanhope, said: "We are very pleased to be selected as Gloucester's development partner. The city is underperforming in terms of its retail offer, and we are confident our scheme will attract new retailers and more shoppers."

Kimbrose Sculpture on the way up - taken about 10 mins ago.

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/kimbrosecorner.jpg

Pilot, a shop which specialises in teen and young ladieswear, opened at the Quays on Saturday 2nd July.

I can't believe that there are not more restaurant chains looking at investing in the Quays; as Pizza Express and Nandos are always jam packed when I'm there.

Totally agree, GlosN. Always busy, something is sure to be announced soon!

Tefal brand have opened a outlet store today, Double TWO are set to open tomorrow and also ROOM look to be setting up a store too. What with Pilot opening earlier this month makes four new stores within as many weeks, long may it continue with news of restaurant/bar too!!

Anyone heard more of the plans for the new Cinema, recently heard Kings Quarter developer speaking on BBC Glos and he mentioned that Peel still had big plans but when??!? (in relation to a smaller possible one within there plans).

Was photo of sculpture but deleted by twitpic.

There's talk of a multiplex cinema going above the Gloucester Quays outdoor stores block (White Company, LK Bennett etc.). These stores are rumoured to be moving into the main mall (phase 1) to allow construction to commence but then I have not seen any planning permissions sort for this. Is there enough room up there for a multiplex, can see one screen but more!?! I need more information!! This will allow the existing Cineworld to be demolished sometime in 2013 once this new one opens, it is unclear if it's still to be a Cineworld.

This sounds like a great idea. If Peel can see this through I can see potentially being a great move. One it will attract lots more people to stay longer, hence more restaurants and bars to open up quicker and would be very similar to that of Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth which looks to be doing great business and attracting new retailers.
Sorry to sound vague but is all I have. If anyone knows more, 'ATTERS72' please let us know as you've been spot on so far!

that sounds like an amazing idea, would reduce the amount of shops they'd need to fill and attract loads of restaurants. makes perfect sense as well, why expand the current cinema when you've invested half a billion over the road which is currently under used. Go for it i say...

the council are looking to save some money by upgrading the Quay whilst Central Networks lays some new cables. sounds like a another great idea if you ask me. the river in Gloucester is a wasted asset and would be another link between the docks and the cathedral..

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-14322752

and more from thisisgloucestershire, ignore the same old crap that some people choose to write on the comments bit. people need to encourage change and work with the councils and not criticise past mistakes or inabilities.

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/Major-change-Gloucester-Quay-road/story-13025424-detail/story.html

Replacement Tesco St Oswolds (£25million)

Tesco have submitted plans for a massive new £25million store to replace the current store at St Oswolds Retail Park. The new Tesco Extra would be 3 times the size of the current store and be built behind the one currently there. This would then be demolished once the new one is ready.

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/images/localpeople/ugc-images/275784/Article/images/13031606/3059924.png

HOPES of a new £25million Tesco in Gloucester have moved a step forward.

Bosses at the supermarket giant have formally submitted a planning application to the city council.

As The Citizen revealed in May, the new store will create 160 new jobs and will be more than three times as big as the current supermarket.

But now the pictures show just how big the new store will be – and just how many parking spaces will be included on the site.

The store will come with a bumper car park – space for 990 vehicles. It currently has 540 spaces.

Under the plans, Tesco wants to build the new store, 19,245 square metres in size, behind the current one.

Once the new store is ready to open, they plan to bulldoze the existing store, which is 5,863 square metres in size.

Under the plans, there would be two retail units on the site, available for rent by local traders.

The application is expected to be considered by the authority's planning committee by September, and work could start as soon as November.

The store's bid to expand has led to fears it could harm trade in the city centre.

Barry Leach, from the Gloucester City Centre Community Partnership (GCCCP), said: "We want to be totally convinced the impact on the rest of the city centre will be minimised before we back this.

"We have not seen the detail of the application yet but we want those assurances. The extra jobs it will create is good news, but if it takes jobs away by harming trade in the city it defeats the object."

Councillor Paul James, leader of the city council, said: "We need to look very closely at it, and a key issue for the planning committee will be what impact it could have.

"We want to ensure the retail park offer improves and this is part of that.

"That part of Gloucester has a strong future."

The application focuses considerably on the economic boost the store would have.

It states that the "economic benefits this estimated £25 million investment in Gloucester can bring to the area are significant."
Gloucester Citizen 29/7/11

Asda to open new 25,000 sq ft store in Kingsway.

So far as I can tell, this will be a sucess given the number of new houses both here and in Hunts Grove (will be in total about 6000 i think once completed). Seems odd given that the Tesco in Quedgley has just been expanded but I guess there is room for them to compete with each other.

A NEW supermarket is on the way to a Gloucester estate – creating 230 jobs.

Asda is in exclusive negotiations to open a brand new store at Kingsway.

It is expected to be 25,000 sq ft in size and will sit on 4.5 acres of currently derelict land.

The news is a major boost for people in the area, who have complained about a lack of facilities.

Landowners Robert Hitchins and Asda have not officially confirmed which supermarket chain will be taking on the site, sources close to the talks say the deal is all but signed.

Both the store and developer are planning to start consultations with the public from September before handing in a planning application to the city council. People who live nearby have welcomed it.

Tracey Cooksey, 39, who lives opposite the plot, said: "It would be great news for everyone. We are desperate for a supermarket."

Ben Hunt, 41, of Woodvale Road, a property surveyor, said: "I've tried to move from here twice because I don't think there's enough amenities – a supermarket would make a massive difference."

There are 1,700 homes on the estate, with planning permission in place to take it up to 3,300.

Every month new residents are taking up new properties, making the area a potentially lucrative one for a food store.

At the moment residents in Kingsway have to travel to neighbouring Quedgeley to visit Tesco.

Councillor Barry Kirby, chairman of Kingsway Residents Association and who lives in Thatcham Avenue, said: "This is a very good thing for Kingsway.

"We live on the other side of the A38 and it's a round trip of around two-and-a-half miles to the Tesco in Quedgeley. I'm really pleased."

The 340-acre site, part of the former RAF Quedgeley airfield, has planning permission for a mixed use scheme of homes, a 40-acre employment site, community and leisure facilities, retail, and a primary school.

Developers Quedgeley Urban Village created the homes, while Robert Hitchins has almost completed a small shopping centre including a Tesco Express, hairdresser, chemist, cafe, estate agents and a Marston's pub.

A spokesman said: "We are aware that thousands of homes have been built in Kingsway and that residents have repeatedly said they'd like more services and choice."

The store could be in place by early next year if all goes to plan.
Gloucester Citizen 28/7/11

Work has started on the old Woolworths unit. Heard lots of noise and they have put plastic up. Looks as though it is the asbestos removal. Should be good once M&S are in there.

Noticed that Jessops have taken a large unit in Kings Walk on the corner next to HMV.

Former Adams has become a Savers store. Not a great store but at least the unit is active.

Debenhams refit is fully underway with new escalators now in and new flooring going accross the the ground floor. New cosmetics counters and a total update so the store is looking good. New signage has freshened up the outside and I especially like the large 'DEBENHAMS at the top of the building facing Kings Square.

Barclays Bank on Southgate Street look like they having a pretty major refit as well.

Wandering down there, the new Kimbrose square and public realm wor looks fantastic. Totally transforms that end of town. I know the shared space scheme has been controversial but I think the main people causing issues are drivers going too fast. People disobeying it is no reason to scrap it. I like the visual impact it has had. Will work well with the downgrading of the Quay to a similar look.

Gloucester Quays was fairly quiet it has to be said considering we are now in the summer holidays, I think its custom must be fairly up and down. I hope we see some more new stores as the empty units are a little depressing after so long.

I think Peel could do a lot more to advertise the centre in the local media/paper/TV. We get lots of adverts for Swindon Designer Outlet or Cabot Circus.

Tesco Express on Station Street at the bus station is taking shape having swallowed up 5 units of that parade of shops. Looks to open in August.

Work has also started in earnest on the old Courts building on Bruton Way. Roof has been removed and the whole building gutted. Should be a vast improvement to the area having that done. The Limbrick Architects have done a fantastic job with the Carriage building (old Dunelm).

http://www.retailgazette.co.uk/articles/33124-morrisons-plans-new-70000-sq-ft-store-in-gloucester

am i the only one that wished, if they were going to put another supermarket on the land less than 1/2 a mile from asda and a mile or so from Sainsbury that it should of been a Waitrose....

I think this is such a wasted opportunity. With Tesco they are replacing an existing store and with the new estates I can see Asda would be used, but this Morrisons i feel is a total waste of time.

With Asda right alongside, sainsburys at one end of eastern avenue and morrisons in Abbeymead/dale, I cannot see the use of this.

The original ideas put forward for a new university campus and/or a Science park would be far far better and work well alongside the hospital and offices already there. Some high quality residential and good landscaping would complete it.

THere are a lot of people who still want a station here.

I think the council are settling too easy by letting this happen.

http://www.retailgazette.co.uk/articles/33124-morrisons-plans-new-70000-sq-ft-store-in-gloucester

am i the only one that wished, if they were going to put another supermarket on the land less than 1/2 a mile from asda and a mile or so from Sainsbury that it should of been a Waitrose....

There was some rumour on TIG last month about a Waitrose opening at the Quays (in the comments relating to yet more Tescos in Gloucester). However, I couldn't find the quoted evidence on the Waitrose website. http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/new-Tesco-stores-Gloucester/story-12794325-detail/story.html#comment-2385465

http://www.glcstrplnng11.co.uk/AWMWeb/Temp/temp_doc_201108051636314321250.PDF

Railway triangle masterplan

Still think its a massive shame they have even submitted this. Supermarkets are the bain of Gloucester at the moment.

A real shame to hear that Currys in town has suddenly closed. Quite a sizeable unit so hopefully will not be empty for too long. Renovation still ongoing for new M&S but not heard anything about what will be going in the old M&S stores on Southgate and Northgate streets.

In some other news;

Down at Kingsway the local centre is currently under construction and the first tenents that I know about are Tesco Express (surprise surprise) and Badham Pharmacy.

Badhams have also opened in the first unit of the new Whittle Centre down in Brockworth.

Also, a 'Hawkin's Bazaar' have now opened a store in the ex-Jewel Nation unit in Kings Walk.

Debenhams is looking great with a completion within the first week of Sep, official re-opening a week later.

Gloucester Quays has appointed new leasing agents Chameleon Retail who also lease for the very successful Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth:

'CRC are appointed as leasing agents on the Mixed Use centre which forms the heart of the Gloucester Quays redevelopment.'

http://crc-retail.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=79&Itemid=113

"The scheme includes an Outlet Centre which opened in May 2009, a leisure plaza which will feature a new 10 screen multi-screen cinema, there are plans for numerous waterfront bars and restaurants which also link to an inner courtyard and the existing retail centre."

Cinema plans still ongoing!

Don't forget its the Gloucester Tall Ships Festival this weekend, hope you can all make it and show that Gloucester can make a success of it all! Spread the word if you can! ;)

Disappointed to notice that the Bearlands Restaurant seems to have ceased trading; a little while ago judging by the weeds. Hopefully, it will soon reopen under new management. We lost count of the number of times we tried to book a table without finding anyone at the other end of the phone, or risked turning up within opening hours (as stated on the door) only to find everything dark with the gate locked. However, on nights when the moon lined up with the stars and the place was actually trading, it offered really good food at a fair price in a quirky subterranean setting. I often wanted to arrange business lunches there (the Americans and Japanese would have filled up their SD cards) but, on reconnaissance trips, it was always closed despite lunches advertised in a flyer.

Random opening arrangements remind me of the 'Inn at the Docks' where they served cheap but decent draught beer (albeit within an internally renovated but still truly horrible building) but you never knew whether they would still be open if you turned up at 9pm! The last straw was being told that they were only going to serve bottled beer (that I could buy at Sainsbury's for a fraction of the cost and not be subjected to nasty seventy's architecture). Do the owners realise why it is now only the car park that is used!

It can be difficult at times to spend money in Gloucester (maybe I'm just being fussy expecting restaurants to serve food and pubs to serve beer). However, my faith returned yesterday with the lovely atmosphere from the Farmers Market in the Quays all the way through to the Gloucester Day activities in the city centre; cars even stopping for pedestrians in the shared space en-route. Thank you to everyone involved!

Application has gone in for a change of use of one of the units from retail to a gym. Kiss Gyms are possibly going to open there.

Webbs of Wyncbold outlet set to return to Gloucester Quays in October.

A landmark hotel in Gloucester is to receive a £350,000 facelift funded by its owner, Gloucester City Council.

Full article: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-14879222

Kings Square toilets have now started to be filled in. The old Pulp store has been demolished and the hole is now mostly gone. It will be turfed over as a temporary measure until the Kings Quarter actually starts up. Will take a while longer for the Golden Egg to go sadly

well it seems my gloucester cathedral thread elicited no replies so perhaps this is a better place.

one of the most masterful pieces of english medieval architecture
http://www.skyscrapernews.com/buildings.php?id=498

http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/498GloucesterCathedral_pic1.jpg

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Thanks for the photos Gothic- they're stunning!

New £60m leisure complex plan will transform Gloucester Quays - Finally announced!!! ;)


http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/New-60m-leisure-complex-plan-transform-Gloucester/story-13411137-detail/story.html

Good news and great Photos ont this page - Thanks gothicform.
More news - the revised plans for the Greyfriars site have been submitted to the City Council by FCB on behalf of Linden Homes, so hopefully we might see some progress on site with demolition restarting.

it has been confirmed today that Tesco will be moving into the former Welsh Harp pub and opening an Express store. proof comes from this,

http://www.glcstrplnng11.co.uk/AWMWeb/Temp/temp_doc_201109272024049584216.PDF

Excellent news about the Quays today this will give the whole centre a massive boost, i for one can't wait! just think where we were 5 years ago and where we will be in 5 years time, Gloucester is moving forward..

It is absolutely brilliant news about the Quays. Hopefully they can start sooner rather than later.

Less (much) excited about the Tesco Express plans. Tesco are getting very boring now.

Wagamama, Cafe Rouge and TGI Friday restaurant chains are to open at Gloucester Quays too!

CELEBRITY chef Gino D'Acampo is to open a restaurant in Gloucester Quays after falling in love with the city.

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/Celebrity-chef-restaurant-coming-Gloucester/story-13425608-detail/story.html

Note: Cafe Rouge and TGI Friday restaurants have been long standing rumours. It is inclear if any of the three chains will open up prior to the redevelopment but assume they are?!?

Application to demolish the office block at the back of Jacks Nightclub in Brunswick Road and convert the two townhouses to the front back into two townhouses, with private gardens.

Long overdue redevelopment of the site.

http://glcstrplnng12.co.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=externalDocuments&keyVal=LRMH4VHMC0000

Sorry bit wonky, but actual proof the thing is coming down.

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/P1080201.jpg

My house adjoins GLOSCAT so I thought you may appreciate some demolition pics....

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Sorry about quality, done on iPhone. Hopefully they will have totally removed it by tomorrow and all that will be left is the crushing and removal of rubble.

Then onto the front building....

I don't seem to have done that last post quite right and I will try to fix that...

In the meantime, this planning application has gone in to turn Currys.digital on Eastgate into a big £ store.

http://http://glcstrplnng12.co.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=externalDocuments&keyVal=LSWRS7HMC0000 (http://glcstrplnng12.co.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=externalDocuments&keyVal=LSWRS7HMC0000)

Can't decide how I feel about this. Better the store being used and providing jobs but another pound store- Gloucester needs to set it's sights higher than this surely.

Scaffolding down at Merchants Quay

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/IMG_0456.jpg

Am back in my home-city for a few days and hopefully will be able to get some photos!

Gloucester Quays- Next are taking an extra unit alongside their current one.

Oneida and The White Company have moved inside next to Musto. Their units are being vacated for the Quayside Project.

The Quayside has new adverts up on the newly vacant units as well as promotion along Llanthony Road and by Southgate Street. This suggests to me that Peel are very serious about getting this off the ground ASAP.

Kings Square- Toilets and former Pulp store have all gone. Area has now been flattened and grass planted with a small wall around it. Looks SO much better and it's nice to have the square fully opened up now. Seems much bigger. Around the corner Tesco Express at the bus station is fully open and looks smart. Might draw some trade away from Sainsburys on Northgate Street unless they do their long awaited refurb.

Northgate Street- Former Kwik Save has hoarding around it but little sign of activity still. This project really needs to get going. That end of town is very depressing now.

Gloucester Docks- Planning has gone in to covert former Antique Centre/Arts and Craft Centre to apartments with retail in the bottom. Cant see this not being approved given the precedent at other warehouses.

As shown in the photo above by oldspot, Merchants Warehouse is really looking smart. I like how it fits so well with the brickwork of the other units while standing out in it's own right. Crest Nicholson have done a good job here.

Southgate Street- Language Immersion Centre is coming on now. Brickwork on the front is pretty much complete. Hard to tell how far it is from being complete but surely cant be long.

Eastgate Street- former Currys unit is all boarded off and Poundworld should be open in the next few weeks looking at how fast they are working. Not much happening in former Woolworths since the asbestos was ripped out. Am guessing we'll see more action from M&S on this after Christmas.

Thanks for the info Pharmj - just one thing, the scheme for the old Antique Centre already has Planning Permission so they can start almost immediately. Just conditions to satisfy. There is absolutely no parking provided for this project, Highways objected but it was still passed.

10/00894/REP | Conversion and refurbishment of building with retail/restaurant use(s) on ground floor, 26 no.residential units above and associated cycle and bin stores (renewal of planning permission ref: 07/00771/FUL). | Lock Warehouse Severn Road Gloucester GL1 2LE

Small update-

Blue Inc are opening in Eastgate Shopping Centre where Raw used to be. They seem to be doing a lot of renovation in there and have knocked another unit into it as well.

MASSIVE plans to revive one of Gloucester's most run-down areas are set to be approved.

Plans to redevelop Greyfriars are up for recommended approval from city council planners.

It comes as the leader of the city council issued a rallying call – calling it the "single most important" scheme for bringing more people into Gloucester.

The huge scheme involves the demolition of the entire site, with 254 new homes, green space, an open area in front of the friary, a cafe, office space and a restaurant all in the pipeline, with 2.4 hectares of land being transformed.

A report set to go before the planning committee on Tuesday urges councillors to give it the nod, despite critical comments from Gloucester Civic Trust, which states it would be a "missed opportunity" to create a "landmark development" worthy of such a central location. A doctor's surgery, creche and community facility are also included in the scheme, which is pioneered by Linden Homes.

During a series of major consultations the views of more than 200 people were sought, with many backers giving their views. The report states: "This is a high quality development proposal."

It also says that it would improve the "built environment" and should be backed by the committee.

The project also has the approval of the city council's Conservative leadership.

Leader of the council Paul James, said: "I can understand the sensitivities around the development, but the latest drawings and details I have seen are an improvement on what we've seen before. This is the single most important development in bringing people into the city centre and all the benefits that will bring the day and night-time economies."

The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and the Gloucester Heritage Urban Regeneration Company are also involved in the scheme.

The committee meeting starts at 6pm at North Warehouse.

from thisisgloucestershire.co.uk

Also the company that owns Liquid nightclub has gone into administration which would be a big blow for the night time economy in Gloucester.

Glad to see things are finally moving in Gloucester... it's been a complete dive for far too long. Hopefully it can be transformed into an important regional centre (though I think it has been and will continue to be hindered by its proximity to Cheltenham)

Costa has applied for planning for for signage at Severnvale Centre (new Quedgeley Tesco)

Kingsway Local Centre are having a Vets installed there to join Tesco Express, Taylors Estate Agents and Badhams Pharmacy.

Marks and Spencer have applied for permission to install solar panels above the new store in Eastgate Centre. This is a good sign of the commitment to the new store.

Greyfriars has received full approval from planners allowing it to progress ahead unhindered. Demo work onsite is ongoing..

Asics sportswear are advertising for a full set of staff at Gloucester Quays for a new outlet. No opening date yet. This is an excellent coup as it would be one of the only stores in the country for the Japanese retailer.

Hi all been following this site for years thought it was time I joined and got involved. Asics is a good start to where The Quays should be heading ultimately it should take a look at Bicester Village as the bench mark. Gucci, Ralph Loren, Hugo Boss, Lacoste, Superdry, Bose, Ugg, Miss Sixty, Diesel these are some of the names I want to see down there all of them are at Bicester. Does anyone know what's happening opposite Sainsburys at the quays construction work going on I thought this is where the hotel was supposed to be?

Scaffolding down at Merchants Quay

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/IMG_0456.jpg

Looks much better than I expected. Btw, it would be great it would be great if they built some building with shops and nice cafes at the car park, it would bring some more people down to the docks.

I spy they are building a pub/resturant on the corner with the land closer to the canal still allocated for a hotel, i believe the original hotel company went bust.

here's the planning application for the signage

http://glcstrplnng12.co.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=LTKM3RHMC0000

Few photos from lunch - sorry about crappy zoom on phone.

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/glos001.jpg

This shows the new Merchants Quay over the Wolfgang Buttress sculpture. He recently completed the Balls on the Falls in Belfast. I think this one should be known as the Cock on the Dock!

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l613/oldspot1/glos002.jpg

This is the new Language Centre which looks pretty good to me, scaffolding just removed. The only thing is, and i dont think my photo shows it to well, is a horrible steel staircase on the roof. Health and Safety no doubt.

The Peel Group this week submitted detailed plans to Gloucester City Council for its multi-million pound investment into the city’s historic docks area, which will see it create a new leisure and shopping quarter – The Quayside.

The plans, if given the go-ahead, will see the expansion of the city’s Gloucester Quays Outlet Centre, also owned by The Peel Group, to include 11 restaurants, a 10-screen, 1,600-seat cinema and new shops. The plans will also mean the creation of up to 500 new jobs. Work is scheduled to start early next year with The Quayside ready for business by autumn 2013. The existing cinema at the nearby Peel Centre retail park would then be converted to create additional retail space.

from peel.co.uk :
Gloucester Quays already boasts a mix of designer and high street outlet shops offering discounts of up to 70%, plus restaurant chains Pizza Express and Nandos. Talks are now underway with a number of other household restaurant names.

Alison Tennant, PR and marketing manager for Gloucester Quays says: “We’ve already received a lot of local support for our plans to expand the Quays and turn it into a real destination. We don’t want people in Gloucester to feel like they have to leave the city for a good night out or to go to the cinema. The Quayside will give them fantastic facilities right on their doorstep.”

The Peel Group undertook a series of public consultations in September and October 2011 and have taken on board a number of suggestions including car parking tariffs and services available which have been included as part of its application.
http://www.peel.co.uk/pictures/News/~jDy4tkDDEEy4xjnDmDyEyEKEZEODMDsEMExEDD46/An_artists_impression_of_The_Quayside_at_Gloucester_Quays.jpg

The cinema will hopefully draw in the resteraunts I would like to see jamies Italian, carlucios, brasserie blanc, loch fyne, yo shushi, wagamama, zizzis, the real Greek, the gourmet burger kitchen and a Spanish and Mexican resteraunt would also be great to see some independents like Sebz down there wasted in Northgate street could thrive at the docks. I also want some bars for the 30+ crowd who have very little choice in Gloucester all bar one, slug and lettuce, o'neils etc come on peel sort it out anyone else got any thought on what they want?

Quite agree I Spy.

The potential for evening trade down at the Quays is unlimited I feel. Although currently I still enjoy the fab bargains you get down there, the eateries don't make me stay longer than necessary.

With a family of 2 young children, to draw a further £30-£40 from my wage per month on a choice of restaurants would make me stay and pay. Phase 2 can not come quick enough in my opinion.

This alone as per the feasability study would draw many many more people to this great City when the building work commences or is completed.

Does any of the regular posters also have any idea if the buildings/potential restaurant outlets right next to Llanthony Bridge are in the firing line for use along with the "old" Waterfront pub?

does anyone have a link to the new planning application for the quays ?

Yatesy - TiG might say Planning Application has been submitted but it has not been validated yet - so not available on Public Access.

This is on the Peel website though which is quite interesting

http://www.peel.co.uk/news/detailedplanssubmittedforgloucestersnewleisurequarter

Gloucester Quays website has been totally relaunched with a new look linking in with the Quayside announcments.

Here is some info from the site:

The Peel Group have revealed new plans for the creation of a leisure quarter at Gloucester Quays and the expansion and refurbishment of the Peel Centre retail park.

The proposals would see the development of “The Quayside,” a £60 million new area that will bring to the city a dining and leisure offer not currently present in Gloucester to the City and with it 500 new jobs. Plans are in place to capitalise on the waterfront setting and location next to the Historic Docks by creating an inviting environment for eating, drinking and entertainment.

Key to the proposals would be the building of a state of the art cinema complex, up to 11 new restaurants & bars and a health and fitness centre. This includes the conversion of Cineworld's existing building into a modern retail space. This is a comprehensive set of proposals which can only be delivered as a complete package.

The new cinema will be built above the retail units on High Orchard Street with a ground floor foyer entrance opposite the existing Pizza Express and Nando’s restaurants on Merchants Road. The entrance foyer will have a licensed bar, fast food outlets and a ticketing area. An atrium will be accessible by escalators, stairs and lifts that take visitors to the first floor.

A state of the art 10 screen cinema will feature the very latest in digital sound and projection. Visitors will be able to enjoy more comfortable, wider seats that will offer the best possible viewing experience. A variety of screen sizes will allow increased choice in types of films and performances that cater to all audiences.

Discussions have been held with a number of national cinema providers and it is expected that Cineworld UK will be the cinema operator. The Cineworld located at the Peel Centre was one of the earliest multiplex cinemas in the UK back in 1990 and further investment is now needed in a new complex that harnesses the latest technology and comfortable surroundings.

Eleven new restaurants will complement the cinema providing a wide range of dining experiences appealing to families, couples and singles alike. Merchants Road and Pillar and Lucy square will be transformed into a cosmopolitan, vibrant place that will take customers from day to night in a safe but fun environment offering a variety of restaurants from family friendly food options to fine dining for all budgets and occasions.

WHITE STUFF brand est. 1985, sells men's and women's clothing & accessories are set to open outlet store @GloucesterQuays in December! :)

was down docks Victorian market today with a gloc mate and have to say the development looks really really good. I ran a record shop in Westgate street many years ago and the council promised to movethe town centre to the docks, it look slike it is slowly happening, so much potential with the waterways and old units. I always maintained that if Glouc council got on the case they could shake off the image of being Chelts ugly brother, just needs the investment. :cheers:

Some good news regarding the Railway Triangle :cheers:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-15989649

It's good and bad news I think we would all like to have seen a much needed new main line railway station in this location with the station as it is now, used as a scaled down version with access to the city and Wales etc and perhaps utilising the space for a new bus station freeing up even more space at the new kings sq development for retail, leisure and living accomodation just a though. Such a shame the railways won't be taking this forward. Also a shame it's going to be a morrisons ideally a Waitrose / John Lewis like Cheltenham's store would have been preferable for me something slightly more upmarket. I also thought ikea was a good idea when that was put forward a while ago or the rugby stadium as the triangle is a much more central location. I'm sure Morrisons will be popular I just think it's a wasted opportunity maybe Waitrose / John Lewis could look at the near empty Focus site???

What a waste. Why they think we need a supermarket over other more interesting things is beyond me.

There really isn't much to do in this city. We need more entertainment.

It's a really tricky site with little going for it. I think perhaps this is the best compromise based on the decades of false starts on this. A supermarket is a shame though given how many Gloucester has. The site is unsuitable for a stadium or something the scale of IKEA given the access and traffic issues both would cause.

Went to Gloucester Quays on the 27th. Was really busy with the first level of parking full up as well. Stores all doing a great trade-looks like a good year ahead for them! New stores seem to be doing well too. No opening date for Asics yet but they have window signs up ready.

M&S hoardings are up saying it will open in the summer of 2012. Gloucester was pretty busy as well, looked quite good.

That's Entertainment have opened next to CEX. Store looked good and was also busy. Warren James have moved next to Virgin Media store from their old unit (also in Kings Walk).

Quite a few empty stores in Southgate Street and The Eastgate centre that hopefully will fill over the next year.

Over at Brockworth we now have a Dominoes Pizza, Greggs and a Reflections Hair open at the new local centre near Tesco Extra. Still a few stores to come here. Esporta Gloucester has been rebranded as Virgin (so we now have 2).

Sainsburys have put in planning to update the Northgate Street store to it's current format. There is also planning to change the car-park and rebuild the petrol station at the Barnwood store. Not sure if this links to the bigger plans they had for it or not.

Kingsway building is back underway and the link road from the estate to the back of the Waterwells Business Park is now open. No progress on the Asda or the Quedgley Enterprise Centre (near the entrance to the estate) yet. The pub next to Tesco and Badhams is about to open any day now.

New Gloucester City Stadium

http://img546.imageshack.us/img546/3625/capture1yd.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/546/capture1yd.jpg/)

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http://glcstrplnng12.co.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=externalDocuments&keyVal=LJC95EHM0BR00

Work has now started on the former Gloucester Antiques Centre alongside the Council HQ. They are converting the upper floors into apartments and the lower floor as retail units.

Asda have confirmed they are opening a 25,000Sq M store at Kingsway on the land opposite the entrance to the estate from the A38. The store is predicted to bring over 200 jobs to the area and provide some competition to the nearby Tesco Extra in Quedgley.

Gloucester City Council have formally agreed to the development put forward by Stanhope PLC for the new Kings Quarter scheme at Kings Square.

The deal includes a new cinema, 26 new shops, a major department store unit, a new bus station and a piazza. The current Kins Square would be built on and a new square formed on part of where Grosvenor House (Bus station) sits. The deal was backed unanimously and allows for a formal contract to be signed. Once this contract is signed, a planning application can be submitted (expected around July).

All good news, although again a shame it's Asda someone please have a word with Waitrose much needed in Gloucester I think. I see the boards are up for M & S in Eastgate Street hopefully they are going to clad the upper floors with something to cover the ugly concrete upper floors? I doubt this but if anyone has any contacts or influence with them maybe it could be suggested? What about potential suitors for Northgate and Southgate street stores?
Peacocks are in trouble whilst sad this is also one of the much needed larger stores in our city
There's also some work going on at the big unit opposite the whittle pub in Brockworth anyone know what this is going to be?
I also noticed the sign was up at the coffee shop in Kingsway but didn't get close enough to see if it was open, the pub is also not open yet.
Anyone got any news on the Quays potential new shops or resteraunts?

Plans for a new £35million service station in Gloucester have been given the go-ahead, after an appeal against it was kicked out.

The High Court has turned down the judicial review challenge by Roadchef and Welcome Break, who claimed Stroud District Council officers misled elected members over the new M5 service station between junctions 11a and 12 service station at Brookthorpe.

Images at: http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/35million-Gloucester-service-station-gets-ahead/story-15122055-detail/story.html

Confirmation that phase 2 of the Quays development came through the latest planning committee meeting. Hopefully, Peel Holdings can get going on construction soon...

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/60million-Quays-cinema-plan-approved-Gloucester/story-15420894-detail/story.html

High end fashion retailer Ghost are to open at Gloucester Quays. This comes along with Asics which is due to open soon. There are also 4 other retailers who's names are to be announced soon.

The Gym are opening in the unit space above Pizza Express and Nandos. All in all a good time to be at Gloucester Quays!

Gloucester Citizen is reporting that Ikea is interested in the retail park element once the cinema is moved but I have heard this before and it didnt come to anything the last time.

Looks like Gifts Direct on The Cross is being turned into a Phones 4U and the RBS bank is rebranding to Santander

Puma are advertising for jobs for their new store to open shortly at Gloucester Quays.

Work has started on Phones 4U on the Cross.

Whats happened with the Gloucester City stadium? All very quiet since the application went in.

Not sure what has happened on the stadium front Bobcarolgees. I am assuming funding is hard to come by on projects like this.

Work is due to start on Gloucester Quays/Cineworld extension this month. Construction is also expected on the Greyfriers site off Brunswick Road imminently.

A few links that may be of interest in relation to the refurbishment of the Lock Warehouse (former Antiques Centre) :

http://www.lock-warehouse.co.uk/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Lock-Warehouse/340715596006821

http://www.punchline-gloucester.com/property/thelockwarehouserefurbishment

There is some interesting history regarding the building and photographs of work in progress at the second link. The third link contains some videos of the work.

Couple of retail new stores opening soon in Northgate St. Pandora are opeing a store in the ex-Stead & Simpson unit and west country Cafe Coffee #1 have taken the ex-Next unit. What we need is some news regards the soon ex-M&S and large units to be filled again...?!?

Quays: PUMA is rumoured to open next week w/c 30th Jul, GHOST cannot be far off opening. Fairview Style a side project from Fairview Garderner is great store opened on Friday just gone...stocks gardening, arty, seasidey and furniture etc. ASICS still not open, heard legal still WIP...

Other names heard are Timberland, Panasonic and Barbour but nothing to back up.

Believe the new Quayside Cineworld was due to start work this week folllowing a massively successful 2nd food festival, such a great weekend...

Any other news?? I find 'Gloucester Renaissance' on Twitter and Facebook, a great source for info too these days. Check them out...

B&M Bargains have announced they are to take over both the Northgate M&S store and the old MFI store on Eastern Avenue. The stores together will create about 60 jobs and the company is investing £500,000 in the stores before their expected opening in October.

An announcment is due 'within weeks' about the fate of the former M&S Southgate store. TKMaxx have said they are not looking for a store in the city depsite being a rumoured interest. Eastgate shopping centre have said there has been considerable interest in the store.

Decision on Gloucester City's new community stadium due on September 4th.

Fingers crossed its a positive one.

^^ If it's approved, how's the financing for it coming on?

The majority from the owner, who also own Keyway construction. The rest will be via grants. The application also includes rental office space, community bar, function rooms etc to ensure its not just used a couple of times every few weeks for games.

Gloucester Quays was busy this weekend though still no sign of construction starting on phase 2.

Coffee #1 in the old next store on Northgate st is almost open. Pandora unit currently being ripped apart before work starts there.

2 big units are being created in Eastgate Shopping Centre where 4 small ones used to be. One of them I hear is being deigned for a high street name and the other is close to being let. No word on the old Southgate M&S yet- hopefully go to a good name.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-19617813

Finally this eyesore is to be developed. I'm amazed such a huge, prominent portion of the centre has sat there so long.

Gloucester Conservative MP Richard Graham said the development should "transform a gateway into Gloucester".

"People will look back and think 'that's significantly better than it was'," he said.

Sadly I fear that last sentence should finish "but not as good as it could and should have been. I'm not usually negative on here but why oh why not Gloucester AFC, Ikea or an indoor concert arena. I drive 10 miles around Gloucester and get to 3 tescos 3 sainsburys ,asda , morrison s ,farm foods ,Iceland's . Do we REALLY need a Morrison's in such a prime place ? If it had to be a supermarket at least it could have been a different offering:-(

Yep. My initial thoughts too. Gloucester is at saturation point with all the supermarkets, and asda is within touching distance of the triangle. I know competition is healthy, but jesus. This is too much. Like you say, a city facility or amenity would be much better, but the reality is maybe no one is prepared to fund them.
Getting a supermarket off the ground is the easiest thing in the world. They're falling over each other, and the likes of tesco would probably build another store right next to an existing store every time if they were allowed.

On a positive note. Good to see the signs going up for the new gym at the quays and a new store taking rock and snow taking over the tog24 unit so quickly. Also nice to see the hoardings up and the cinema work starting. Should hopefully hear soon. About coots being taken over by weatherspoons too. Also went into coffee no1 in the old next unit in north gate street today and whilst a little pricey was pleasantly surprised.

That's brilliant news, would you be able to get any photos? I wont be able to be back in Glos until late October looking at things

Paul Costelloe to open a branch in Gloucester Quays. Mens/Ladies fashion store. Asics advertising for staff so looks like the legals have been sorted out for their store too. Fab news for the Quays!

£60million Kings Quarter plans gather pace.

City Council looks set to sign final deals in next few days allowing for land ownership changes and final preparation to start for new development. Next are formally interested and confirmed they are looking at the development, believed to be a possible anchor. Zara are also a strong rumour for the site as well.

Deal has now been formally signed so its all steam ahead for some detailed plans hopefully soon.

Also been confirmed that TKMaxx have signed for the former Northgate M&S store while B&M bargains are taking the old Southgate store. Good news that these units are filled so soon. A shame they were not higher end retailers but better than empty units

Noticed the triangle is heaving with jcb's. That was quick. Will try and get a pic or two this weekend.

Does anyone know what's happening with the gas holder on Horton road? They seem to be pulling it down but can't find a application to replace it or to build something else..

It's ok just found this http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/Gloucester-s-Skyline-Vanishes/story-17062007-detail/story.html... Wonder what will be put in it's place

Crane is up at Gloucester Quays for phase 2. The roof is already off the cinema block and work seems to be going fast. Snow and rock have opened their store there and they are in the process of painting to slats on the front and side of the building a green/turquoise to match the centre colours. It looks good! The Gym on Llanthony Road is proceding well with the mezzanine floor going in. They are taking the end unit and almost all the second floor.

In town Barratts shoes are opening next to Marks and Spencer's on Eastgate street. Animal has closed down and Cooperative Food have an application in for the store. Some goings on at the old Johnson dry cleaners on Southgate street and the old JJb store has been stripped out. Internacionale are opening in 3 units in Eastgate shopping centre so not sure what's happening to their existing unit. B&M are open in the Southgate old M&s unit. No sign of TKMaxx starting yet tho.

Works have started on Metz Way to build the junction needed to get into the railway triangle and the new Morrisons store.

JJB is apparently being taken by Tesco. Not sure it's what Gloucester needs but it's been empty for ages

Its most definitely not what it needs. Far too many unless its going to be law that you have to be within a 10 minute walk of a tescos. Got two food places opposite not long opened doing food for 99p.If it is instead of the one at the bus station OK but as well as ? Why not a mini waitrose ?

Went to the Whole Foods store in Cheltenham which was absolutely packed. Quite an impressive product range but mostly within a top tier price bracket. It will be interesting to see if they can sustain that type of business model or if they end up rationalising their range.

In-store deli and bakery looked quite good and there were some good opening offers such as a whole salmon for £10.

Patisserie Valerie is to open in Gloucester where the old Millets store was on Southgate Street. This is a pleasant surprise being a high end cafe that are quite selective in where they open.

Patisserie Valerie is to open in Gloucester where the old Millets store was on Southgate Street. This is a pleasant surprise being a high end cafe that are quite selective in where they open.

Indeed, a massive surprise, its one of best cafe chains in the country...my wife does not believe it until she sees it lol!! Think we will be going...perhaps some of these quality retailers have seen the light for Gloucester and it indeed is on the up....! ;)

Being home for a few days I thought I'd get some photos of our beautiful city and some of it's new arrivals...

Gloucester Quays
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12591.jpg?t=1356655318
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12631.jpg?t=1356655578

New Onitsuka Tiger/Asics Store
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12601.jpg?t=1356655463
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12611.jpg?t=1356655529

New Paul Costello Store
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12641.jpg?t=1356655679

Building work on Phase 2 continues
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12651.jpg?t=1356655774

Walking towards town from the Quays..
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12661.jpg?t=1356655846
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12671.jpg?t=1356655956
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12681.jpg?t=1356656033
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12691.jpg?t=1356656083

Carrying on from before...
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12701.jpg?t=1356656139
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12711.jpg?t=1356656245
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12721.jpg?t=1356656320
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12741.jpg?t=1356656419
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12751.jpg?t=1356656480
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12761.jpg?t=1356656543

New B&M store in Southgate Street
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12771.jpg?t=1356656599

Patisserie Valerie open on Southgate Street
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12781.jpg?t=1356656651

The Cross at Christmas
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12791.jpg?t=1356656708

Westgate Street
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12801.jpg?t=1356656769

The last few..

Kings Walk at Christmas
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12831.jpg?t=1356656941

The Eastgate Shopping centre + it's new arrivals
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12841.jpg?t=1356656995
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12851.jpg?t=1356657052
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff198/pharmj/IMG_12861.jpg?t=1356657106

Here is the masterplan document for the Railway Triangle development. Work is completed on clearing the site and new services/water etc is being plumbed in before work proper next year.
http://wwww.lxbretailproperties.com/images/uploads/railway_triangle_sitemap.jpg

JD Sports in Eastgate shopping centre moving to the old internacionale unit and the Tesco unit continues to be developed.

Hoardings are up for the Coop unit on Kings Walk. Sadly both HMV and Jessops in Kings Walk are now closed. Hopefully the units can be promoted together and maybe see one large store go in there.

Topman/Topshop has closed for a month for significant refurbishment and a new shop front. The Body Shop is also seeing an update.

Looks as though things are starting to finally move with Bakers Quay. The area alongside Gloucester Quays has been in ruins for many years and is now becomming a target for vandals.

A planning application has gone in to renew and update the application from a few years ago for the major buildings to be refurbished and converted into a range of retail, leisure and residential uses. This would be a major leap forward for the area and really tie in well with the Quays and Peel centre bearing in mind the significant investment Peel are delivering to both.

The plan for Bakers Quay appears to have the interest of Crest Nicholson (who did most of the docks warehouse conversions) for the residential element and then a Costa Drive thru, Premier Inn and Brewers Fayre restaurant as well. This is only part of the wider plan but it is good to see some major names very interested in the site.

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/Drive-Costa-hotel-restaurant-plan-derelict-Bakers/story-18298876-detail/story.html#axzz2MNyEl722

Couple opportunist shots of the triangle. Presume this is morissons.
http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa272/Berbaking/2013-03-05162445-1.jpg

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa272/Berbaking/2013-03-05162500.jpg

Good news for a derelict site on Southgate street, a planning application has gone in for a new care home on the site currently occupied by the former Uncle Sams takeaway and empty corner plot on Trier Way...

http://glcstrplnng12.co.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=externalDocuments&keyVal=MGRVNBHMC0000

McDonalds looking to open a new restaurant next to Frankie and Benny's at St Oswalds Park or space currently occupied by car parking..

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/New-restaurant-shop-Gloucester-Docks/story-18727863-detail/story.html#axzz2QYnvnXj0

Interesting potential design scheme for the King's Quarter redevelopment.
http://www.epr.co.uk/images/directory/projects/architects-masterplanning/kings-square-gloucester/1.jpg

from http://www.epr.co.uk/projects/architects-masterplanning/kings-square-gloucester/

I'm not sure how up-to-date that image is as they have already decided that they are keeping the Trier way car park opposite the old Courts.

On other news...GLOUCESTER IS HOSTING RUGBY WORLD CUP! What a coup for the city! 4 matches sure to bring massive attention and many thousands of visitors accross the matches. A great profile raiser for the city! A couple of years to prepare. Well done Gloucester!

Oh and its been approved for Gifts direct to be knocked together, most likely for a Costa. A smart move of theirs with Kings Quarter on the cards- could be a real money spinner for them.

Also Ed's Easy Diner has been confirmed to be opening a 100 seat restaurant at Gloucester Quays. Not sure which unit yet- one of their first in this region so good news all round!

New cafe bar set to join the growing list of names at the Quayside, Portivo lounge have put in an application for signs on the corner building on Merchants road

http://glcstrplnng12.co.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=externalDocuments&keyVal=MMFNQMHMC0000
http://www.glcstrplnng11.co.uk/AWMWeb/Temp/temp_doc_201305161705203171637.PDF

All really good news for Gloucester! The Lounge bar, Ed's Easy Diner and Nando's extension are all going to really boost the area.

An independent store has opened in the Eastgate Shopping Centre. Schuh is opening where profile used to be in Kings Walk and it looks as though HMV and Jessops have both been saved from closure permanently!