Gloucester development, The Forum, has been crowned regeneration project of the year at The Michelmores Property Awards 2025 which recognise achievements in property development, construction and regeneration in the south west.
The new city development was described by judges as 'frankly brilliant'. They said it as represents a bold and ambitious step in the city’s ongoing regeneration journey.
Judges also pointed out how they believe it’s already beginning to link with other key projects across the area.
The panel said it's creating a ripple effect of positive change, while combining functionality, delivering new retail, leisure and workspace facilities they believe have reinvigorated Gloucester’s city centre and also contributed to local economic growth.
The Forum by Reef Group was shortlisted alongside the Babbage Building at the University of Plymouth; Crescent redevelopment of the former HM Revenue and Customs building in Bristol by Quedgeley firm Kier Construction — who also topped the SoGlos Top 100 Businesses in Gloucestershire 2025 — McArthur’s Yard affordable homes on Bristol's harbourside and Rolle Gardens housing development in Exmouth.
Now in its 22nd year, the awards celebrate projects that contribute to the south west region’s economy and community, with a particular focus on environmental sustainability, innovative design and the broader positive impact of projects within communities.
The awards encompass nine categories, with a judging panel drawn from the property industry.
Head of real estate at Michelmores, Emma Honey, said: 'The 2025 Awards have once again showcased the incredible talent and ambition within the south west’s property sector.
'From pioneering sustainable housing to ambitious regeneration projects, this year’s winners are truly inspiring examples of how the built environment can enrich communities and drive positive change.
'It is exciting to see innovation and quality at the heart of so many projects.'
Hosted by Irish actor and comedian Ed Byrne, the awards took place on Wednesday 2 July 2025, at Sandy Park Conference Centre in Exeter.
The city's flagship development, led by Reef Group and Gloucester City Council, is supported by £20 million in Levelling Up funding from the UK government.
The £107 million Forum development — opening in phases in 2025 with its first business tenant, Fasthosts, having moved in in December 2024 — combines 135,000 square feet of Grade A office space, a 131-room Hotel Indigo with rooftop bar, 'deluxe' specification apartments, retail units and a 398-space car park.
