HBD, the property investment and development arm of Henry Boot, has secured outline planning consent for phase one of the £1bn Golden Valley innovation and technology scheme in Cheltenham.
The outline planning consent allows for a development comprising around 1m sq ft of prime commercial space, including IDEA, the new 160,000 sq ft National Cyber Innovation Centre, as well as 576 residential units.
The 200-hectare regeneration project will eventually provide around 2,500 new homes and 1.25m sq ft of commercial space with the National Cyber Innovation Centre at its heart.
The £1bn Golden Valley innovation and technology project is located adjacent to GCHQ, the UK’s intelligence, security and cyber agency.
HBD was appointed as development partner for Golden Valley by Cheltenham Borough Council in 2022 and submitted an outline planning application in October 2023. A separate outline planning application for an additional 443 homes is also due for determination in the coming weeks.
Tim Roberts, CEO of Henry Boot, said: “Securing planning permission marks a major milestone for both Henry Boot and the future of UK innovation. Golden Valley is a significant development and a superb example of public and private sector collaboration working well, committing regional investment that will strengthen the UK’s capabilities in the highly important cyber security and emerging technology sectors.
“It is also testament to the expertise and dedication of our development team. Unlocking land for developments that create jobs, opportunities and economic growth, while delivering sustainable returns for our investors, is central to our long-term strategy.”
Dr Marsha Quallo-Wright, GCHQ director of technology futures, added: “We welcome this decision and are pleased to confirm our presence on this important project. We look forward to working alongside academia and industry to enhance our ability to address emerging security challenges, foster innovation and support the region’s growth. By strengthening these collaborations, we will tap into new expertise, share knowledge and help shape the skills needed for the future, all of which are vital to supporting our mission to keep the UK safe.”
Rowena Hay, leader of Cheltenham Borough Council, said: “This is excellent news; securing outline planning consent for the first phase marks a significant step forward in the delivery of Golden Valley. We are aware that there are a number of planning obligations that have to be formalised through the conclusion of the Section 106 agreement, and we also acknowledge how important our partnership working will be with colleagues at the county council to secure infrastructure commitments so that we can deliver the full benefits of Golden Valley to our local communities.”
