A massive 200-hectare land parcel is set to be transformed into an innovative development plan. The Golden Valley planned for West Cheltenham will become a world-class, multi-purpose development district with the Cyber Innovation Centre at the centre of it, and the mega project has just hit a construction milestone.
Contractors for the £1 billion project have been appointed. Bowmer + Kirkland, a family-owned construction company, will deliver the first phase of the scheme, including two flagship buildings named Idea and Router.
According to New Civil Engineer, Idea is being promoted as a National Cyber Innovation Centre offering 15,000 square metres of workspace and event facilities. The centre has the potential to accommodate government teams, private firms, academia, and start-ups.
Router will be the sites transport hub boasting cycle parking, e-bike charging, showers, lockers, real-time bus information, a car club, and flexible office, retail, and food and drink space.
The entire project is a joint one brought by developer HBD and Cheltenham Borough Council. When completed, it is expected to feature 2,500 homes, 116,000 square metres of commercial space, and support up to 12,000 jobs.
Both HBD and Cheltenham Borough Council believe that Golden Valley will boost the area’s economy, and enhance the town’s role as a technology and cyber cluster next to the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ).
Ed Hutchinson said: “The importance of Golden Valley in strengthening the UK’s position as a leader in secure innovation really can’t be overstated. The development will play a key role in driving innovation across cyber and deep tech industries while delivering significant economic benefits for Gloucestershire and the wider south west.
“With outline planning consent for phase one approved, it’s positive to be able to announce the appointment of Bowmer + Kirkland as we focus on getting started on-site.”
Rowena Hay, Cheltenham Borough Council leader, said: “Its important that social value remains a key priority as Golden Valley begins to take shape.
“The team at Bowmer + Kirdland took the time to meet with local groups and charities, schools, colleges and universities as early as possible to understand the key priorities for the community and wider region, ensuring that is plans and investment are aligned and will deliver real, tangiable benefit.”
The first phase is set to start in Spring 2026.