National League club Forest Green Rovers and energy company Ecotricity have unveiled plans to develop a 100-acre sports and technology centre.
‘Eco Park,’ which will be located at junction 13 on the M5 near Stroud, could create up to 4,000 jobs and would require £100m investment to include a new all-seater stadium for Forest Green Rovers, training fields and a sports science hub.
The sports facilities will be located next to a green technology business park with sustainably-built commercial offices along with a potential public transport hub.
Dale Vince, Founder of Ecotricity and Chairman of Forest Green Rovers, believed Eco Park could be a fantastic development for Stroud and a centre of excellence for sport in Gloucestershire.
“At the same time, it’s going to be a place where green businesses and technology companies come together and share ideas, a real focal point of creativity and innovation for the area – and a part of the green industrial revolution that’s beginning to take off around the world,” said Dale.
“Today we’re going public with the concept and it marks the beginning of the consultation phase – we’re keen to hear what people think and we’re open to ideas.”
Ecotricity is currently located in Stroud and despite employing 600 people across four buildings in the town centre, Dale felt Eco Park would allow the firm to expand its workforce.
David Owen, Chief Executive of GFirst Local Enterprise Partnership, added that it was a fantastic concept which would have huge benefits for Stroud and Gloucestershire.
“It’s a great location with excellent transport links, and could provide a huge employment boost for the area,” added David.
“Like many areas, Stroud has its large share of out-commuters – talent going out of Stroud for work.
“Eco Park would be a chance to keep talent and investment in the area, so we’re excited to be involved.”
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