Major developments in Gloucestershire that have stalled could be given a helping hand from Gloucestershire County Council (GCC) through renewed access to loan funding.
The council has revealed plans to relaunch the Gloucestershire Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), an £8 million loan pot to support projects that will boost economic growth; create new jobs and housing; and deliver regeneration 'in areas that need it most'.
The revolving fund will be used to top up private sector investment, so that construction can proceed.
Set up with a £8.4 million award from the government's Growing Places Fund in 2012, the fund was previously available through GFirst LEP, helping to unlock major projects like Gloucester Services and the 270 Climbing Park in Bentham.
Eight projects have been supported to date, with loans being awarded interest free on a short-term basis of up to three years. £7.57 million of the fund is currently committed.
With the functions of GFirst LEP transferring to GCC in April 2024, the council wants to invite new applications for the fund.
It is also seeking to adopt the Local Development Guide (LDG) – an updated framework which sets out 'clear expectations' for developers and planners, ensuring that new developments in the county are 'well-designed, environmentally responsible and benefit local communities'.
The LDG will be used to inform planning decisions from this summer, while allocation of the funding is expected to begin before the end of this financial year. Both initiatives will be reviewed by the council's cabinet at a meeting on Wednesday 23 July 2025.
Councillor Julian Tooke, cabinet member for business, economic development, planning and infrastructure, said: 'We want Gloucestershire to be a place where growth is not just about numbers, but about delivering quality places – where people want to live, where services are accessible, roads are safe and walkable and where communities feel proud of their local community.
'These initiatives will help shape places where people want to live, work and thrive – and where future generations feel proud to call Gloucestershire home.'
