PEOPLE are being asked to have their say over ambitious plans to build up to 5,000 homes by 2050 in a new development across the Sharpness area.

Sharpness Development LLP have officially launched a consultation over proposals to build a garden village complete with a railway station and four new schools.

If approved, the first phase of proposals would see 2,750 new homes built by 2040 between Berkeley and Sharpness.

According to initial plans, after this, a further 2,250 homes would be built after 2040. 

Other plans include building a 10-hectare business park with an innovation hub which would focus on the county’s knowledge and technology economy.

Officials say, if approved, the park would create up to 1,700 full-time and part-time jobs.

An artist's impression of a proposed neighbourhood at the Sharpness Vale development (Image: Sharpness Development LLP) Also included are transport plans such as a central mobility hub, ‘demand-responsive’ coaches, upgrades to local roads and improvements to junction 14 of the M5.

The aim is for the neighbourhoods to evolve and grow ‘slowly’ over time, the plan says. 

Meanwhile, it is believed new residents moving to the development could provide a £17m boost to yearly expenditure to shops and businesses in the Stroud district.

During the construction phase, approximately 591 jobs will also be created.

The proposal also says broadband speeds would also be improved across the area with developers working with Virgin Media.

Officials say 50 per cent of the proposed development will include green spaces such as  wildlife reserves, green corridors and outdoor recreation areas. 

The development is being led by GreenSquareAccord and Lioncourt Strategic Land.

Officials say they hope to submit a planning application to Stroud District Council by the end of 2024. 

An artist's impression of a proposed green space at the Sharpness Vale development (Image: Sharpness Development LLP) Laurence Clarke from GreenSquareAccord said: “Sharpness Vale is designed to blend thoughtful, sustainable homes with spaces for work, leisure, and nature. 

“We aim to build a community that supports local jobs, offers reliable green transport options, and ensures easy access to beautiful green spaces.” 

Andy Faizey, strategic land director at Lioncourt Strategic Land, said: “Our goal is to proactively engage with the entire community, inviting input from current residents in Berkeley and Sharpness and those who may call Sharpness Vale home in the future. 

“We want this to be a community shaped by local values, including drawing inspiration from the River Severn's environmental character. 

“By listening closely, we aim to build a development that embodies the Council’s vision for the Sharpness area, serving both the needs of today and the aspirations for tomorrow.” 

The public are being invited to two two drop-in events which are due to take place at Sharpness Village Hall.

One event will take place from 2pm to 7pm on Friday, November 15 and another from 9.45am to 1pm on Saturday, November 16.

You can also submit feedback online here - tinyurl.com/yaej2bxc