Gloucester City Council's £13.8 million Greyfriars Quarter development is moving forwards, with a potential opening of spring 2027 for its new market hall revealed this June 2026.
The transformation of Gloucester's Eastgate Market Hall, along with parts of Eastgate Shopping Centre and connecting outdoor areas, into new retail and community space is already underway, with works to gut former shops at Bell Walk in progress, ahead of the market's relocation there in the coming months.
Council leader Jeremy Hilton gave the update to councillors at a recent cabinet meeting, according to local democracy reporter Carmelo Garcia.
The largely government-funded scheme also includes the creation of a new arts and performance venue with capacity for up to 450 seated or 600 standing spectators; and the conversion of the former bowls club neighbouring Greyfriars Priory for community use, and new open space on the former bowling green.
The council will also work with Historic England and English Heritage to improve the external appearance and setting of Greyfriars House and Monument as part of the scheme.
The authority has previously described its vision for the new market as being 'a bright, welcoming space for local traders and shoppers'; with a food hall that offers 'the perfect place to eat, relax, and mix with friends and family'.
Councillor Hilton told cabinet members that building on the bowling green is also envisaged next year, and subject to planning permissions, the cultural hub would be completed in 2028.
'The scheme builds on the regeneration works already carried out at Kings Square, the Forum, the Hotel Indigo and a multi-storey car park,' he told the meeting.
'It focuses on retail and cultural activities, breathing new life into the Eastgate Market and providing much needed cultural and entertainment facilities to Gloucester, which will be set within revitalised public realm, and much needed works to Greyfriars House and Monument – bringing new life, activities and footfall to this previously quiet quarter of the city centre.'
