Major step forward: Five Acres secures planning approval
Forest of Dean District Council is pleased to confirm that the new indoor facilities at Five Acres in Berry Hill, including a soft play area, gym, and on-site café, have now received planning approval. This follows approval for the 3G pitch on the site granted in December.
Cabinet Member for Property and Projects, with oversight of Five Acres, Cllr Sid Phelps said:
“Securing planning approval for the building and facilities at Five Acres in Berry Hill marks another major milestone for the project, allowing us to move forward and focus on beginning construction.
“The updated designs include a wide range of accessible features to ensure the building can be used and enjoyed by everyone in the community, whatever their age or ability.
“Our aim is to create a facility that serves the community of the Forest of Dean for many years to come. We recognise that some residents have felt frustrated by the time this project has taken, but it has been essential to ensure the scheme is both financially and environmentally sustainable, not just for today, but for the long term. I’m pleased that the new designs deliver on that commitment.
“We’re looking forward to getting work underway on site and will be sharing further details about the start of construction in the coming weeks.”
The transformation at Five Acres will now begin to take shape, with design and build contractor Willmott Dixon undertaking work to appoint sub-contractors and begin construction.
The internal designs include a soft play area, dedicated party rooms, power-assisted exercise facilities, group fitness studios, a fully equipped 53-station gym, and an on-site café. In addition, the upper floors of the former Speedwell Building will be transformed into modern office and community spaces, alongside a new outreach facility for Hartpury University’s Aspiration Centre.
Richard David, Director at Willmott Dixon said:
“We are delighted to announce our collaboration with Forest of Dean District Council to deliver this new leisure facility in Five Acres, Berry Hill.
“Our approach prioritises engagement with local supply chain partners, which will both support the local community and boost the local economy through the creation of jobs.
“We understand the importance of this facility to the community, and we are looking forward to working with partners to bring the exciting plans to reality.”
Forest of Dean District Council will now turn its attention to a start date for beginning construction and this will be communicated in due course.
Full details for the future vision for Five Acres can be found at the link following link: https://www.fdean.gov.uk/planning-and-building/regeneration/five-acres-redevelopment-site/