Consultation set to launch into plans to protect city’s heritage

If given the go-ahead at this month’s cabinet meeting, the city council will launch a consultation into whether shop signs should be in keeping with the city’s architecture.
If residents agree, guidance will be issued to shops and businesses to make sure signage is sympathetically designed and uses high quality materials. The plans will also need approval from the secretary of state.
The practice is common in many historic cities and shopping centres who set guidelines for shops and businesses.
Its aim is to make the city more attractive to residents, shoppers and the thousands of tourists who visit every year.
Research by Historic England has shown that areas with better quality and more appropriate signage attracts investors, boosts pride in a city and contributes to community wellbeing. It also improves the overall economic prosperity of the city.
Guidance would apply to the conservation area which covers the historic gate streets.
Councillor Sarah Sawyer, Cabinet Member for Planning at Gloucester City Council, said “I’m committed to making the most of our beautiful city and helping our high street to look the best it can be. We’re competing against the internet for shoppers and against many other towns and cities as a tourist destination. If we want to make Gloucester a go to destination and shout about our world class heritage, then it’s important to follow other shopping destinations and introduce guidelines for shops. It makes sense for everyone, particularly for businesses if we attract more visitors and will help to ensure the long-term success of our high street and protect our city’s heritage.”