Sheffield-based Henry Boot said that HBD, the group’s property investment and development arm, has secured outline planning consent for phase one of Golden Valley, Cheltenham — a £1 billion government-backed cyber defence, AI and quantum technology focused development.
The 200-hectare flagship regional regeneration project near GCHQ will eventually provide around 2,500 new homes, 1.25 million sq ft of commercial space with the National Cyber Innovation Centre at its heart and support the creation of almost 12,000 jobs.
“The outline planning consent allows for a development comprising around 1 million sq ft of prime commercial space, including IDEA, the new 160,000 sq ft National Cyber Innovation Centre referred to in the UK government’s Modern Industrial Strategy, as well as 576 residential units of various tenures, supporting Cheltenham’s housing needs,” said Henry Boot.
“HBD will prepare to begin construction later this year.
The £1 billion Golden Valley innovation and technology project is located adjacent to GCHQ, the UK’s intelligence, security and cyber agency. The development aims to further strengthen the UK’s leadership in cyber, AI, quantum technologies and secure communications, supporting national security, economic resilience and industrial expansion.”
HBD was appointed development partner for Golden Valley by Cheltenham Borough Council in 2022, before submitting an outline planning application in October 2023.
“The scheme is an important public private partnership, having secured a £104 million funding package, including £20 million direct from the UK government, complemented by significant additional private sector investment,” said Henry Boot.
“This underlines strong public sector commitment to the development’s success, which is referenced in the UK’s Cyber Security Strategy.
“Golden Valley will attract high-value investment and enhance skills development in cyber and deep tech industries. It will generate significant economic benefits for Gloucestershire, the South West and the UK, while strengthening Britain’s position as a global leader in secure innovation.
“A separate outline planning application for an additional 443 homes is also due for determination in the coming weeks.”
Henry Boot CEO Tim Roberts said: “Securing planning permission marks a major milestone for both Henry Boot and the future of UK innovation.
“Golden Valley is a significant development and a superb example of public and private sector collaboration working well, committing regional investment that will strengthen the UK’s capabilities in the highly important cyber security and emerging technology sectors.
“It is also testament to the expertise and dedication of our development team. Unlocking land for developments that create jobs, opportunities and economic growth, while delivering sustainable returns for our investors, is central to our long-term strategy.”
Marsha Quallo-Wright, GCHQ Director of Technology Futures: “We welcome this decision and are pleased to confirm our presence on this important project.
“We look forward to working alongside academia and industry to enhance our ability to address emerging security challenges, foster innovation and support the region’s growth.
“By strengthening these collaborations, we will tap into new expertise, share knowledge and help shape the skills needed for the future, all of which are vital to supporting our mission to keep the UK safe.”
Cllr Rowena Hay, Leader at Cheltenham Borough Council said: ”This is excellent news; securing outline planning consent for the first phase marks a significant step forward in the delivery of Golden Valley.
“We are aware that there are a number of planning obligations that have to be formalised through the conclusion of the Section 106 agreement, and we also acknowledge how important our partnership working will be with colleagues at the county council to secure infrastructure commitments so that we can deliver the full benefits of Golden Valley to our local communities.”