THE FOREST'S flagship regeneration scheme faces new legal challenges with the first court date set for tomorrow (Thursday).

Forest of Dean Friends of the Earth is appealing against a decision by another court to refuse a judicial review of the planning permissions for the Northern United site near Cinderford and the nearby Forest Vale Road with the case being heard tomorrow.

The group has also been given permission to appeal against the Forest Council's Core Strategy – the development blueprint for the district – with the hearing likely to place around March next year.

The legal moves come as the plans for a new college and an £8.6 million "spine road" on the Northern Quarter are set to go on display to the public.

A two-day exhibition and consultation will run at the Belle Vue Centre in Cinderford on Friday, November 29 and Saturday, November 30.

The exhibition is being hosted by the Home and Communities Agency (HCA) and will show drawings, plans and information to show how the new college, road and surrounding development will open up the area.

Residents and businesses in and around Cinderford will receive individual invitations to the consultation but the HCA is encouraging anyone with an interest to attend.

Visitors to the exhibition will be able to complete a short questionnaire to register their views on the plans which the HCA says will unlock more than £100 million in investment bringing jobs and opportunities to the district.

Councillor Graham Morgan from the Cinderford Regeneration Board said: "The exhibition is an exciting step towards bringing new jobs, business and homes to Cinderford, plus a state-of-the art college for the Forest of Dean.

"I urge everyone living or working near to the Northern Quarter to come and see how the designs will transform this former coalfield site into a cutting edge, sustainable centre to study, work and live."

Greg Morgan, the HCA's area manager, said: "this is an important stage in shaping these important proposals to bring investment, jobs and opportunities to the Forest of Dean.

"We're really keen to show how the project partners are working together and hear what people think about this vital part of Cinderford's future."

Lynne Craig, principal of Gloucestershire College's Forest campus said: "The new campus plans mark the first steps in creating a fantastic modern further education learning environment to help learners in the Forest of Dean to reach their full potential.

"There is still a long way to go, but we are working towards creating an inspiring place to work, learn and socialise."

The exhibition is open to the public between 10am and 8pm on Friday, November 29 and 10am to 1pm on Saturday, November 30.