Settlement Hierarchy

The existing approach to delivering growth is set out in the adopted JCS. It guides the location of new development based on a ‘settlement hierarchy’. The key urban areas of Cheltenham and Gloucester are identified as the focus for new development where housing and employment needs can be provided close to where they are needed and where occupiers of new development can benefit from the existing and enhanced sustainable transport network.

Tewkesbury town itself plays a lesser role for new housing and economic development due to its small size. In turn, a network of Rural Service Centres (Winchcombe and Bishop’s Cleeve) and a number of smaller Service Villages provide for needs within the rural area.