The PUNCHLINE Annual 2020

Regeneration projects are landmark moments for Gloucester

It is entirely a reflection on the building that has greeted heaven knows how many people as they arrived in Gloucester from the railway station that no one will mourn its demolition. If you are familiar with the structure off Bruton Way - part multi-storey car park, part uninspiring office above a one-time windowless night club – you will understand. Its removal marks a major milestone in the city’s long-awaited move to revamp its main square and surrounding precincts. From this ugly duckling will emerge a new gateway to the city centre to complement the well-received recently built bus station, adjacent to the crumbling concrete of the car park and Bentick House, like the polished wing of a giant biplane fallen to earth. The last decade has been a pivotal period in transforming Gloucester. And as leader of the council through that decade, Paul James has weathered scepticism, seen some promised projects turn to dust in his hands, but never given up. Although he will be first to say bringing the current

project to the start line has been a team effort. And at the opposite end of the city, there is cause at the very least to allow himself a smile. A new hotel looks destined for the former council offices at Gloucester Docks.

Once only the council was brave enough to move into the Herbert, Kimberley, Phillpotts warehouses in a Docks quarter unable to attract any investor confidence. Now it looks like Dowdeswell Estates, the high- profile designer-led Cheltenham-headquartered construction firm, has beaten off 50 (yes, 50!) other firms to become the preferred bidder.

A new hotel in the warehouses could be seen as the ultimate compliment to a

58 | February 2020 | www. punchline-gloucester .com

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