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The first phase of construction of a new community and leisure centre in the Forest of Dean is officially underway this May 2026, following years of delays to the £11 million project.

Forest of Dean District Council says residents will see works to deliver 'high quality, modern' facilities for the local community progress over the coming months, with contractor Willmott Dixon having now made a start on the build at Five Acres.

The milestone comes more than two years after planning permission was secured for the original scheme at the former Gloucestershire College site, with rising costs having forced the council back to the drawing board.

Albeit without some facilities that were planned for originally – notably a multi-purpose four-court sports hall and performance space – new plans for the scheme's first phase were approved by the council in January 2026.

The first phase now includes an area for soft play, party rooms, power-assisted exercise rooms, group exercise space, a 53‑station gym and a cafe.

The former Speedwell Building will also be repurposed to create new office and community spaces, along with an outreach space for Hartpury University’s Aspiration Centre. Outside, there will be new car parking and secure cycle parking.

Separate planning approval for its second phase – a 3G sports pitch artificial pitch suitable for rugby and football, along with floodlights and a dedicated spectator zone – was granted in December 2025.

Cabinet member for property and projects at the council, Dave Tradgett, said: 'Starting construction at Five Acres is a very important day for the people of Berry Hill and the wider Forest of Dean.

'We recognise that reaching this milestone has taken time, but our priority has always been to ensure the project is financially responsible, whilst developing a facility with environmental sustainability in mind. Five Acres will provide long‑term benefits for our residents, and we appreciate the continued support throughout the process. 

'Updates will be shared by the council as the build progresses, and we look forward to seeing Five Acres transformed into a community asset that can be used by residents of all ages and abilities.'

Peter Woods, director of the council's cost consultant on the project, Pick Everard, commented: 'After a challenging journey to get to this stage, due to inflationary pressures caused by global events and market volatility, it’s incredibly rewarding to finally see progress happening on site'.