Sep 7 2007
National regeneration agency, English Partnerships, has announced the funding of a range of feasibility studies that will take forward the long-awaited regeneration of Cinderford.
refurbishment of the Miners Welfare Hall could provide much needed cultural and leisure opportunities for local residents and visitors alike.
The creation of the Dylke Hospital Social Enterprise Trust will also be investigated in order to develop the Hospital on its existing site or its relocation to a new site within Cinderford. The Forest of Dean District Council has recognised that the Dilke was built by miners’ subscriptions and supports, in principle, proposals for its ongoing operation as a health spa/ therapy/ community/ leisure facility.
Finally, a range of land acquisition, remediation and major infrastructure investments will be explored. These measures will assist the development of new employment opportunities within Cinderford.
English Partnerships is a member of the Cinderford Regeneration Board, which also includes representatives from Forest of Dean District Council, Gloucestershire County Council, SWRDA, local education, health service and business representatives. The Partnership has been notified of the approval of these preliminary investigations and surveys, which will now commence at the earliest opportunity. This work will, in turn, identify the future levels of investment that will be required to take forward the regeneration of Cinderford.
Councillor Graham Morgan, Chair of the Cinderford Regeneration Board said, “This is fantastic news for Cinderford! I think we are on the verge of a new beginning for the town and this new commitment from English Partnerships will provide a significant boost for the town's economy."