Wisloe evolves as project team responds to survey findings
Surveys took place in 2023 to help the project team better understand the site, as part of a collection of technical work over recent years. This is an important part of shaping any plans for Wisloe.
The latest work, which included a geophysical survey, highlighted potential archaeological activity that might date back to late prehistoric and Roman times within the Wisloe site. In light of this, the project team has adapted the proposed masterplan for Wisloe to ensure any future development responds positively to these early findings. This and any further work would be consulted on as part of the planning process.
Key changes to the masterplan for Wisloe involve moving:
- Proposed access location about 65m to the south west, from its original position.
- The proposed school location and playing pitches across the road running from the A4135 towards the local centre.
- The location of some development west, away from the eastern site boundary with the M5 which remains as open space.
You can see an updated masterplan image showing these changes here, along with an image of the original masterplan which we consulted on in 2021. Information about the earlier masterplan is available here.
Updated masterplan
Original masterplan
Other key elements of our proposals for a sustainable community of around 1,500 homes at Wisloe remain in place.
Responding to survey findings
Reflecting on the surveys, a project spokesperson said: “We have always known that the area has links to Roman times through to the medieval period and beyond. It was important for us to learn more about this through these technical surveys.
“Wisloe remains at a very early stage, and we are proactively looking to understand the site's history to better shape any plans that come forward.
“This early work is just one part of a long-term commitment to creating a sustainable development at Wisloe.
“We will keep the community and stakeholders updated and would once again like to thank them for their understanding and patience during the survey work.”
What happens next?
The team has liaised with Gloucestershire County Council's archaeology team on the findings, who have helped to inform how the masterplan has evolved so far. The archaeology within the site is not protected, but Historic England has reviewed our technical archaeological survey work, and said they're prepared to assist if needed. This has helped to inform how the masterplan has evolved so far.
These findings will be most useful to any future development partner who works with us to shape plans for Wisloe. A process to find and select a suitable partner is underway, with a procurement process expected to start next year.
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Minerals survey complete
The archaeological survey is not the only technical study on the Wisloe site. A minerals survey was also completed as part of our ongoing investigative efforts. The specialist team leading this work found that the small volume and poor quality of minerals on-site mean any proposed development at Wisloe would not prevent the extraction of any valuable resources.
You can find the geophysical survey report here.
Any questions? Contact the project team on wisloe@distinctivecomms.co.uk or 0300 107 0535.