The building of new leisure facilities at Five Acres in the Forest of Dean – including a soft play area, gym and cafe – has been approved this January 2026, with a start date for construction to be confirmed 'in due course'.
The decision from Forest of Dean District Council to grant itself permission for the works marks 'another major milestone' for the project, which has been plagued by delays caused by rising costs.
The council revealed its latest masterplan for the former Gloucestershire College site in August 2025 – 18 months after planning permission was secured for the original scheme.
It is now taking a phased approach to its development, with some facilities that were planned for previously, including a multi-purpose four-court sports hall and performance space, now not included in the initial phase.
The approved plans include the delivery of a soft play area, dedicated party rooms, power-assisted exercise facilities, group fitness studios, a 'fully equipped' 53-station gym and on-site cafe.
The upper floors of the former Speedwell Building will also be repurposed into modern office and community space, alongside a new outreach facility for Hartpury University’s Aspiration Centre.
It follows separate approval for a 3G artificial pitch at the site, along with floodlights and a spectator area, that was granted in December 2025.
Cabinet member for property and projects, Sid Phelps said: 'Securing planning approval for the building and facilities at Five Acres in Berry Hill marks another major milestone for the project, allowing us to move forward and focus on beginning construction.
'The
updated designs include a wide range of accessible features to ensure the
building can be used and enjoyed by everyone in the community, whatever their
age or ability.
'We recognise that some residents have felt
frustrated by the time this project has taken, but it has been essential to
ensure the scheme is both financially and environmentally sustainable, not just
for today, but for the long term. I’m pleased that the new
designs deliver on that commitment.
'We’re looking forward to getting work underway on site and will be sharing further details about the start of construction in the coming weeks.'
