The historic Gloucester Gaol site, a prominent feature in the city centre, is now on the market, offering a unique opportunity for redevelopment. This move could revitalise a key area of Gloucester that has been unused for years.

City & Country, the current owners, are seeking a buyer for a significant portion of the former prison, designated for the construction of 149 new homes. This announcement has been positively received by Gloucester’s MP, who is eager to see the site, located in Barrack Square, revitalised.

The site, which was once home to approximately 320 inmates, has been dormant since its decommission in 2013. City & Country acquired the property in 2014 and secured planning permission from Gloucester City Council in 2018 for an ambitious redevelopment project. The approved plan includes transforming the Grade II* and Grade II-listed prison buildings into 38 homes, alongside the creation of seven new structures, accommodating an additional 164 homes. The development is also set to feature 481 square metres of commercial and community space, ample car and cycle parking, and various garden areas for public and private use.

A crucial aspect of the project involved extensive archaeological work to uncover and document the remains of medieval Gloucester Castle, upon which the prison was constructed. Some initial demolition and groundwork commenced in 2021, but progress has since stalled.

City & County, specialising in the restoration and conversion of heritage sites, is now selling the freehold of the majority of the new build section, which has detailed planning permission for 149 open-market units. The company plans to retain the listed prison buildings for conversion, as well as two smaller new build blocks.

The site is strategically located near the Quayside and Blackfriars redevelopment areas, making it an attractive prospect in a region undergoing substantial regeneration.

Gloucester MP Richard Graham expressed optimism about the sale, acknowledging the delays due to the archaeological significance of the site. He anticipates the revitalisation of this prominent site in Blackfriars.

Gloucester Prison, with a history dating back to 1792 and substantial rebuilding in the 1840s, ceased operations in 2013. Its historical significance, including its foundation on the site of Gloucester’s Norman castle, adds to the allure of the redevelopment project.

While the prison building currently hosts leisure activities, including Halloween events by Salvation Z, broader development plans have yet to commence.

Cllr Richard Cook, leader of Gloucester City Council, acknowledged the project’s slow progress but remains hopeful for future development, citing the site’s potential as a crucial link between the docks and the city centre.

This sale presents a remarkable opportunity for developers and investors to play a pivotal role in transforming a historically significant site into a vibrant residential and commercial hub, contributing to the ongoing regeneration of Gloucester.