Planning approval secured for Five Acres 3G Pitch
Work continues behind the scenes at Five Acres, with planning approval now granted for the external facilities at the site, including the 3G pitch and associated lighting.
Cabinet Member for Property and Projects, with oversight of Five Acres, Cllr Sid Phelps said:
"The planning approval for the new external facilities at Five Acres marks a major milestone in the project.
“We know there is great anticipation within the community about the build and with the 3G pitch now receiving the green light we are another step closer to beginning construction.
“Having listened to feedback from residents, the full designs for Five Acres ensure that it incorporates activities and facilities for everyone within the community, catering for residents of all ages and abilities. A separate planning application has been submitted for the indoor facilities and a decision for this will be made early in the new year.
“Planning approval is an exciting step on the journey towards construction, and we’ll be sharing more on a construction start date in the near future.”
The forthcoming redevelopment of Five Acres will provide indoor amenities designed to support health, wellbeing, and community engagement. The 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.
Externally, the plans feature the installation of a floodlit 3G pitch suitable for both rugby and football, complete with a designated spectator area. This element of the project was made possible through a successful funding application to the Football Association in January 2025.
Cllr Phelps added:
“It’s important to all of us that Five Acres is a facility for the long term and is an asset for the community in the Forest of Dean for generations to come.
“The new designs and energy saving initiatives take this into account and will help to ensure that the environmental impact of the building is as low as possible.
“Further details on the new designs and planning applications can be found on the Council’s website.”
Information relating to 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/
Full details for the planning application for the external facilities, as well as the separate application for indoor facilities can be found on the District Council Planning Portal using the following reference numbers: P1435/23/FUL and P0087/25/FUL