IN A move aimed at boosting the vibrancy and vitality of the Forest of Dean’s four market towns, Forest of Dean District Council cabinet members have agreed to recruit a new dedicated Market Towns Officer.

This role is set to play a pivotal part in town centre regeneration, ensuring that these areas continue to serve as thriving hubs for residents and visitors alike.

The new officer will work closely with partners across the district, providing strategic direction for regeneration efforts and helping to coordinate initiatives driven by local grassroots organisations.

The post will sit within the council’s existing Regeneration team, ensuring a focused, collaborative approach to revitalising town centres.

Cabinet member for economy, Cllr Johnathan Lane, commented: "In recent years, we’ve been reminded how important it is for our residents and visitors to have access to healthy, vibrant town centres. Our high streets are resilient, but recovering from the pandemic and the rise of online shopping has posed challenges. A dedicated Market Towns Officer will support existing initiatives and help bring our high streets back to life."

The Market Towns Officer will assist with delivering the priorities set out in the council’s plan, focusing on thriving communities, decarbonisation and nature recovery, and a sustainable economy.

The officer’s role will also involve working with town councils in Cinderford, Coleford, Lydney, and Newent, many of which are run by volunteers, to implement the objectives laid out in local regeneration frameworks and master plans.

The officer will help identify funding opportunities and attract external support to achieve regeneration goals.

The joint initiative will see the council funding 50% of the role, with the remaining costs shared equally between the four town councils.

This collaborative funding model reflects the importance of partnership in the regeneration process. Town councils will also be involved in the recruitment process and monthly performance management meetings to ensure the role meets local needs.

Mayor of Coleford, Nick Penny, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with FoDDC and the other Forest towns. The opportunities for growth and regeneration are something we are all excited about.”

Cllr Tasha Saunders, Mayor of Lydney, added: "It has been a really good project, working together with the other towns to identify the needs of our community. We are looking forward to working with a Market Towns Officer."

The new role is seen as a crucial step in addressing the challenges faced by town centres, particularly in light of changing shopping habits and economic pressures.

Cllr Graham Morgan, chair of Cinderford Town Council, welcomed the initiative, stating: "This is an absolute must for towns like Cinderford that are facing the onslaught of online shopping. We look forward to working with the new officer to improve the viability of Cinderford."

Chair of Newent Town Council, Sara Hulbert, also voiced her support: "Newent Town Council are excited to support the market town regeneration officer initiative, and the opportunities it could bring to our town, parish, and wider community."