I’d like to highlight two very different subjects which both demonstrate how Gloucester is on a massive upward curve.
While the regeneration of Gloucester is in full swing I am acutely aware that the rebirth of any City is about much more than buildings.
It is about people and how the changes in our landscape can be to the benefit, first and foremost, of its residents
We will only have fulfilled our commitment to move Gloucester forward if as many local people as possible secure the broad range of new jobs that are being created in the City.
We also want to ensure that individuals have the opportunity to progress, develop new skills and change to a career that can help them have a share in the future of Gloucester.
That is why I’m really excited about the City Employment and Skills Plan. It is the first time that all the key organisations responsible for helping people find employment, develop skills and gain qualifications have agreed to work together to deliver for Gloucester.
A £6 million investment plan has been drawn up to link local people to jobs in The Quays, the City Centre and other parts of the city. A key commitment is to make sure that local people will be in the best possible position to compete for these jobs.
Specialist advice and training, plus opportunities to develop skills relevant to jobs are just some of the support mechanisms which are being put in place.
We will be working with employers and other agencies to ensure that vacancies are opened up to people from all parts of the City - there will be no effort spared in giving Gloucester residents the chance to access these opportunities.
You will be able to start taking up these services from late August that will link in to the phased opening of The Quays. More information will be available later in the summer.
On a different note July 13th sees the opening of the next major project for the city – the council’s new open market site at Hempsted Meadows
Located on the new bypass this scheme has seen major investment by the council. It has space for 199 stalls and free parking for more than 400 cars.
There is a regular bus service to the site, and both cycle and motorcycle parking.
Across the road from the market is the new Gloucester Barn Owl Centre and over the next few months the Council will be extending the nature trail taking in previously inaccessible countryside. This makes a day out for all the family.
To celebrate the new market, a World War Two Hurricane fighter will fly over the site to kick things off in style!.
There has been huge interest from traders and car booters can’t wait to get there. It will ensure a high profile for Gloucester’s long market tradition.
This demonstrates the two aspects of modern Gloucester. The fruition of development proposals - and action plans to make sure that our residents benefit from them in the future.
Julian Wain
Chief Executive
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