New book tells the story of Gloucester’s regeneration

A new book telling the story of Gloucester’s regeneration has been released. 

Entitled ‘Believing in Gloucester’, the book covers the major developments in the city over the last 25 years or so, including those that have happened and those that fell by the wayside – ranging from the Docks and Quays to the collapse of the Blackfriars development, the Westgate Hotel scandal and the various attempts to sort out Kings Square.  It also features some of the major events along the way, like the floods of 2007 and the Rugby World Cup 2015.

It has been written by former City Council Leader Paul James, who held the regeneration portfolio in the city for 16 years between 2004-2020.  Paul has been working on the book for the last 4 years and has interviewed over 100 people involved with the various development projects in order to piece together the story.

Paul said, “I had it in mind that I would write up the story of Gloucester’s regeneration when I stood down from the Council.  I felt that it should be recorded for posterity and to learn lessons for the future and I thought that if anyone was going to do it, it may as well be me!

“I was directly involved in a lot of it, but there is a good deal that either predates my time in office or has happened since I stood down from the Council.  It’s been a challenge to piece it together, but I think it makes a fascinating story.  It is probably the most comprehensive account of a place’s regeneration ever written.

“I hope it reminds people of how much has been achieved over the last 20 years, as it’s easy to forget what some parts of the city were like before then.  But it also makes clear that the job is far from finished and I hope it will inspire those involved today to address some of the regeneration challenges the city still has.”

The book is available on Amazon and can be bought on the website in print format for £15.99 or e-book for £6.99.  Printed copies are also available by contacting Paul directly on  or from the St Mary de Crypt shop in Southgate Street.

Gloucester News Centre – http://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk