Government rejects a bid to regenerate the Greyfriars Quarter

Gloucester Liberal Democrats have expressed disappointment over the unsuccessful bid by the city council for financial support towards the important Greyfriars regeneration project.

The bid to the Government for £11 million was supported by the Lib Dem group.

Councillor Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester Liberal Democrats, said: "We already know that Gloucester City Council was awarded £20 million to help with the development of the Forum, the repurposing of the old Debenhams building into a university campus and the restoration of the historic Fleece Hotel. 

"The council also bid in the Levelling up round 2 for £11 million to regenerate the Greyfriars Quarter. It's disappointing that the Government rejected this application. Especially as the bid was supported by the city's Conservative MP. It seems Mr Graham failed to persuade his Government to award the council a grant on this occasion. 

"The council was to contribute £1.5m towards the £12.5 million scheme that would provide a new modern indoor market at a better location for footfall and trade in the Eastgate Shopping Centre, there would be an improved public realm around the Greyfriars monument and building that were to be restored and become holiday apartments and food and beverage outlets. The cultural life of the city in this area would have been enhanced. 

"The Lib Dem group has supported both Levelling Up bids and we are disappointed that the Greyfriars bid has been unsuccessful. The leader of the council is due to speak to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee about the project in the near future.

"It will be interesting to discuss with Councillor Cook how this worthwhile project can proceed without Government financial support. It is a critical project for the city's continued regeneration. There is concern that a number of regeneration projects are stalling under the Conservative administration. The regeneration of the old prison is a project that is making no progress."