WORK has started to improve the ‘gateway’ into Coleford.

Until spring the Forest of Dean District Council’s site between High Nash Road and the High Street is undergoing a face-lift.

The project involves removing two existing derelict council buildings and the green open space primed for redevelopment.

Nearby retailers have been informed of the planned works and council officers will be liaising with businesses and town centre users to make sure disruption is kept to a minimum throughout the project. 

Shops, offices and properties remain accessible from the High Street and pedestrians can access the council offices from the front via the ‘banjo’ area.

Cllr Patrick Molyneux, (Con, Hewelsfield and Woolaston) leader of the district council, said: “As a council we have a duty to ensure that we obtain the best value for the local taxpayer and best social benefit from the Lawnstone site.

“The re-development of the site will directly benefit Coleford and will be a vital part of our continued investment plans for the town centre’s future success.

“Our long-term plan is to ensure Coleford is an attractive, vibrant place to live, work and do business. Ultimately we would like to see a developer provide commercial premises with starter home units, to complement the overall look of the town.

“The improvement works are due for completion in early spring.”

Cllr Paul Kay, Mayor of Coleford, added: “This could be an exciting project helping to regenerate the town. It certainly will help improve the look of the gateway into the town.

“We believe the completion of this project will create strong interest from prospective buyers and businesses and would like to see a developer grasp the opportunities that the site has to offer.”