New affordable family homes for local people in Cheltenham

Housing Association, Aster Group is inviting Cheltenham residents to have their say on proposals for new family homes and public open spaces at land known as The Folley, off Swindon Road. The site was previously used for some of University of Gloucestershire’s sport activities, but those uses and requirements have ceased. Aster proposes to deliver around 125 new affordable homes, including shared ownership and homes for rent, alongside new public open spaces close to the centre of Cheltenham. 

These proposals present a unique opportunity to help Cheltenham meet the significant need for affordable housing in the borough, which is identified as a key priority by Cheltenham Borough Council. Over the past five years, identified housing need in Cheltenham has outstripped the supply of affordable housing by almost three times, keeping many local people from the security and stability of having a home.

In addition to helping to address the housing crisis locally, these proposals will also open up the site for wider public use. New public open spaces will be created alongside the provision of a new sports pitch, with changing facilities and a dedicated parking area for a sports club within the local community.  Opportunities to work with the neighbouring Gardners Lane Primary School are also being explored, including their use of the new car park during term/school hours.

A community drop-in event about the proposals will be held at Gardners Lane Primary School on Thursday 11 January 2024. The doors will open to the public at 4pm and the exhibition will close at 7.30pm. In the meantime, local people can visit the project website thefolley.co.uk to find out more.

Aster Land and Planning Manager, Katy Herrington said she looked forward to meeting local people. “This development is a fantastic opportunity for Cheltenham, providing high-quality, energy efficient affordable homes for local people, with a particular emphasis on affordable home ownership. We are keen to hear what local residents think and involve local school children in learning opportunities related to the development.”

Ms Herrington added: “This is a great site close to the town centre. We believe the plans we are putting forward align with Cheltenham Borough Council’s priorities to address the climate emergency and increase the provision of affordable housing.”