Story perspectives

Coleford Residents Protest 5,500 Home Development Plans

1/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Residents in Coleford protested outside a Forest of Dean District Council meeting over plans for 5,500 homes, voicing concerns about infrastructure.
The Forest of Dean District Council voted on the draft local plan, and the result was a tie resolved by the chairman's casting vote.
Councillor Gillian Kilmurray emphasized that infrastructure must precede development.
Council leader Adrian Birch said the decision preserves local control and democratic involvement.

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Story summary

Residents in Coleford protested outside a Forest of Dean District Council meeting over plans for 5,500 homes, voicing concerns about infrastructure.
The Forest of Dean District Council voted on the draft local plan, and the result was a tie resolved by the chairman's casting vote.
Councillor Gillian Kilmurray emphasized that infrastructure must precede development.
Council leader Adrian Birch said the decision preserves local control and democratic involvement.