THE MAGAZINE FOR THE GOLDEN VALLEY DEVELOPMENT

WWW.GOLDENVALLEYUK.COM ISSUE 01 • SPRING 2021 GENERATING JOBS, SUPPORTING TAKE THE TOUR! SKILLS GET TO KNOW THE A BOOST FOR TRAINING AND GOLDEN VALLEY JOB CREATION DEVELOPMENT

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE ATTRACTING OUTSIDE INVESTMENT, BOOSTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY GARDEN COMMUNITIES A BETTER WAY TO LIVE AND WORK

CAREERS • EDUCATION • HOMES • TRANSPORT • LIFESTYLE • NEWS • RESOURCES WWW.GOLDENVALLEYUK.COM 03

2605 GV01 Spring21 p01 Cover GS.indd 3 18/03/2021 15:57 STATISTICS

Some key Cyber Central STRENGTH IN NUMBERS UK statistics value of cyber security 200% to the UK growth in UK cyber industry in the last two years £8.3 bn in 2020 78% 43,000 of businesses 2,000,000 full-time employees work in the say that cyber sq ft. of commercial floor space proposed at Cyber Central UK UK cyber security sector and security is a this is growing at a rapid pace priority issue £348m 20 invested in cyber security in 2019 universities with a 3,700 by UK government presence within a 75-minute drive of new homes proposed in The Golden Valley Garden Community Cyber Central UK

GLOS £22 m 1,200 6x 11x 200 GFirst LEP Investment in the national average of cyber hectares of land for transport infrastructure cyber security firms companies the Golden Valley for Cyber Central UK active in the UK garden community £1.9 BILLION invested by government in UK cyber industry to 2021

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p02 v2.indd 2 18/03/2021 19:01 THE MAGAZINE FOR THE GOLDEN VALLEY DEVELOPMENT Welcome to the first issue of GV magazine 04 A better way to work, live and play The Golden Valley

WWW.GOLDENVALLEYUK.COM ISSUE 01 • SPRING 2021 Development: what it is, GENERATING JOBS, SUPPORTING how it will happen and TAKE THE TOUR! SKILLS GET TO KNOW THE A BOOST FOR TRAINING AND GOLDEN VALLEY JOB CREATION DEVELOPMENT why it matters The future

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE ATTRACTING OUTSIDE 06 Travelling along INVESTMENT, BOOSTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY the timeline is golden Where we’ve come from, GARDEN COMMUNITIES where we are, where A BETTER WAY TO LIVE AND WORK The Golden Valley Development is one we’re going CAREERS • EDUCATION • HOMES • TRANSPORT • LIFESTYLE • NEWS • RESOURCES WWW.GOLDENVALLEYUK.COM 03 of the most exciting and forward-looking 08 A pioneering development projects in the UK. approach to planning The project not only supports the nation’s What is a garden community? And why ambition to become a science superpower, is the Golden Valley but in the months and years ahead will create GV magazine provides information Development a new and diverse employment opportunities about the Golden Valley Development pioneering approach to in Cheltenham which we hope you this exciting concept? for Cheltenham, , and find useful. the surrounding region. It will improve our 10 News www.goldenvalleyuk.com New businesses, sustainable transport infrastructure and drive important events, award- @GoldenValley_UK forward housing growth. winning ideas, support

Published by services and post-Covid GV magazine will be published periodically recovery initiatives. Plus, and is one of the many ways in which we aim Cheltenham Borough Council a look at plans to reduce Municipal Offices traffic congestion to share news and updates about the project Promenade with local residents and communities. Cheltenham 12 Music to my ears GL50 9SA Alison Townsend, Tel 01242 262626 As a region, we are already at the forefront of Head of Marketing at the UK’s rapidly expanding cyber industry. With Neil Hopwood College, Programme Manager welcomes a project the Golden Valley Development, we have an Amanda Keane that will boost training outstanding opportunity to go further, creating Programme Officer and job creation across technology, hospitality, an internationally significant technology Produced by construction and campus that will lead the way in the UK’s Kava www.kavacomms.agency much more mission to be the safest place to do online 14 Opportunity for all business and a world leader in cyber security. Every effort is made to ensure The Golden Valley the accuracy and reliability of the Development is a once-in- The past year has been challenging for information in this publication, a-generation opportunity however Cheltenham Borough all of us, when hope and opportunity have for Cheltenham, Council will not be liable for any sometimes seemed in short supply. form of loss or inconvenience arising Tewkesbury and the from information contained within surrounding region – but As we start to come out of what we all hope it. Information correct at the time of also great news for UK plc going to print. will be the final lockdown, the Golden Valley 16 Closer to the buzz! Development holds the promise of a vibrant Printed using vegetable-based inks on Tech corporates and responsibly‑sourced paper. innovation businesses future in the region for residents, businesses are flocking to the area – and communities. Please recycle. and Bamboo Technology was among the first. We look forward to sharing the journey with you. CEO Lorrin White tells us why Cheltenham Cyber Central is the place to be 18 Useful information Want to know more? Our FAQs, links and Councillor Rowena Hay leads will help Leader of the Council

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p03.indd 3 18/03/2021 16:01 OVERVIEW WHAT IS THE GOLDEN VALLEY DEVELOPMENT? You’re walking through a hive of industry that feels more like a university campus than a business park. There’s a buzz in the air.

Global tech companies sit alongside new enterprises you’ve not come across before. Start‑ups are thriving alongside industry giants.

In the green spaces, people are working on laptops, sharing ideas and insights. Ahead of you is the iconic GCHQ doughnut, while all around are contemporary living spaces nestled amongst modern business labs and office hubs.

Local services are flourishing with coffee shops, restaurants and cultural centres serving the local population. The whole area is pedestrianised, with walkways and cycle paths, yet you can hop on an electric bus and be in Cheltenham’s famous Regency Promenade in just five minutes.

Welcome to the Golden Valley Development

Cheltenham and Tewkesbury and investment to the area, Borough Councils have creating approximately 12,000 come together to create the new jobs and opportunities for Golden Valley Development, Cheltenham, Tewkesbury and a pioneering development the surrounding region. adjacent to GCHQ in Cheltenham. The development will be a melting pot where the The Valley will consist of technological know-how of 200 hectares of homes, business GCHQ and cyber experts mix and office spaces, coffee shops, with some of the leading minds leisure and cultural centres from our local University of with pedestrianised green areas Gloucestershire and nearby connecting it all. universities like Oxford, Warwick, Bristol, Birmingham, Cardiff and The aim is to build a new Bath, along with the talent and community that combines ambition of school-leavers from world-class cyber businesses across Gloucestershire. and academic facilities, outstanding housing and state- There are 20 universities of-the-art leisure facilities within a 75-minute radius of in a highly accessible and Cheltenham which provides environmentally sustainable a great opportunity for development. This is a project collaborative projects and that will bring new businesses encouraging young people to

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p04-05 v2.indd 4 18/03/2021 19:02 become part of the revolution in Over time, the development will cyber and digital technologies. deliver around 3700 homes, with a target of 40% affordable But it’s not just a great place housing. And this will be housing to work. This is one of the best development that has community places in the UK to live, with the and sustainability in its DNA. beauty of the and the Homes England is working in on your doorstep, partnership with the councils as well as all that Cheltenham to ensure the delivery meets has to offer – a rich, vibrant town the very exacting standards of a with 21st century shopping, garden community and that the sports and arts facilities, Golden Valley becomes a place of beautiful Georgian architecture which the local community can and a calendar filled with world- be proud. famous festivals. In 2019 Cheltenham Borough Golden Valley will be a place Council purchased 45 hectares that is culturally rich and (112 acres) of land in order to exciting, where the edges take a controlling interest in the are blurred between living, scheme. It’s the first step on a working and play. A magnet for journey that will culminate in a business and innovation that is pioneering new development: a built around a strong sense of better way to work, live and play. community, somewhere exciting with soul and with a clear identity.

This community focus is central to the vision for Golden Valley.

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p04-05 v2.indd 5 18/03/2021 19:02 KEY MILESTONES GOLDEN VALLEY PROGRAMME TIMELINE

DEC 2020 MAY 2020 MAR 2020

Final shortlisting for West Cheltenham Transport Official launch of development partner Improvement Schemes (WCTIS) Golden Valley Development underway identity to reflect the project's ambitions + + Official launch of search for Announcement for J10 highways development partner to deliver infrastructure award now £249m the project

1+2

JAN 2021 APR 2021 JUL 2021

Phases 3 and 4 of transport Final bid submissions for Announcement of infrastructure begun development partner for preferred bidder Golden Valley

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p06-07.indd 6 18/03/2021 18:56 2015 2017 2017

At GCHQ George Osborne Joint Core Strategy £22m transport announces government adopted. 132Ha allocated; infrastructure investment in one of two UK 68Ha safeguarded. agreed Cyber Innovation Centres to be developed in Cheltenham

AUG 2019 JUN 2019

Cheltenham Borough Council Garden Community award for purchases 45Ha of land for the Cyber Central UK and the regeneration project Golden Valley Project

SUMMER 2021 2022 2023/24

Phases 1 and 2 of transport Planning application submitted for Site mobilisation and infrastructure complete early phases of development construction begin

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p06-07.indd 7 18/03/2021 18:58 GARDEN COMMUNITIES

LANDSCAPE FIRST: A VISIONARY APPROACH TO PLANNING What is a garden community? And why is the Golden Valley Development a pioneering approach to this concept? Here’s a brief look at the history and modern application of an extraordinary vision.

Back in 2019, the Golden Valley the UK. It is an approach that represents ► Connected and integrated transport Development was one of a handful of a fresh opportunity to stimulate economic systems throughout – an emphasis locations awarded garden community status growth outside of London, and a chance on walking, cycling and public by the government – making it a frontrunner to move beyond identikit housing and transport routes in a fiercely competitive field. town centres that look like anywhere and ► Healthy places – areas that promote nowhere. It imagines spaces that employ active, healthy and inclusive The award recognised that this is a project fresh ideas and smart technologies to create lifestyle choices committed to having sustainability at its well-planned, sustainable places for people ► Integration of nature and green space – core – a project with pioneering design to live and work. generous, accessible and good-quality principles around the use of open space, green and blue infrastructure with community wellbeing and the provision of Culturally rich and exciting the Golden Valley opportunities to deliver biodiversity a diverse mix of high-quality, affordable Development will have all the characteristics net gain homes to meet the changing needs of of this kind of community, including: ► Future-proofing and environmental future communities. ► A clear identity – an attractive and sustainability – adaptable to their users’ functioning centre and public realm changing needs, evolving technologies, A 21ST-CENTURY APPROACH ► Sustainable scale – jobs, facilities and future growth and the impacts of But the garden community concept isn’t services that can be accessed easily climate change new. It has been more than a century since and sustainably ► Legacy and stewardship arrangements radical urban planner Ebenezer Howard first ► Great homes that are affordable – high- – long-term stewardship of outlined his idea of the garden city. Against a quality, distinctive homes, designed to be community assets backdrop of drab industrialisation, Ebenezer functional, accessible and for all stages had a vision of places where people could of life True to Ebenezer’s original vision, the Golden work, raise families, travel easily and enjoy ► Well-designed places with a good Valley Development will be a place that is green spaces. mix of uses – vibrant mixed-use culturally rich and exciting, for homes, work communities with a range of local and recreation. Jobs, creativity and business The government and Homes England have services, including workplaces, schools, will flourish alongside a strong sense of revived the concept for the 21st century and healthcare, and spiritual, recreational and community, a clear identity and a real sense are investing in garden communities across community facilities of belonging.

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p08-09.indd 8 18/03/2021 16:09 The transformation of Singapore Can innovative policies around green spaces really help to drive prosperity? Singapore shows why – and how – they can.

Singapore is a great place sky-terrace gardens, ATTRACTING to live – high GDP, some of rooftop parks, recreation INVESTMENT the best connectivity in the spaces and fantastic Why does it work? Three world, high-speed public residential developments words: opportunity, transport and fantastic and all highlight how far variety, convenience. A CLOSER LOOK successful businesses. But Singapore has come. Having so many talented it wasn’t always so. people working in a How Golden Valley will High-density development relatively close space benefit the local landscape In 1965, newly independent was the only choice results in prosperity Singapore was the type of for Singapore given its for companies. That city few people would wish relatively small footprint, generates more jobs. And to live in. It was hugely but with innovative everything is close by: congested, its rivers mixing policies around trees, shops, homes, commercial with open sewers and green spaces and parks, centres and the business Extensions to local countless slums. There the high population districts are sited open spaces were few decent jobs and density benefits from an alongside hospitality and natural resources were unprecedented level of recreation facilities. scarce. In less than 50 open green space, parks years, it was transformed. and artificial freshwater Success comes in many reservoirs and lakes. different forms. For TURNING THINGS Singapore, constraints The creation of a new AROUND The prosperity that has mean high-density living network of landscape Half the size of the followed this development was the only option. areas, open to all, with high Metropolitan Borough of has led to one of the For Cheltenham, cyber connectivity across the new London, an island, city and highest levels of home technology industries network of public spaces state all in one, turning ownership in the world. and initiatives will things around in Singapore More than 90 per cent of take the lead and drive was never going to be easy. the population own their development. Attracting But with the right incentive own homes, while those significant investment to programmes to promote who can’t afford to own the area will really put greenery replacement and their home are supported Cheltenham on the map – New allotments to help planting, that’s exactly by housing associations internationally, as well as meet increased needs what happened. Today’s and government. in the UK.

New sports facilities

Enhancements to local biodiversity

Innovative policies have transformed Singapore Innovative solutions that reduce flood risk

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p08-09.indd 9 18/03/2021 16:10 NEWS NEW TASK FORCE TO LEAD CHELTENHAM’S POST-COVID RECOVERY A new task force has been formed to spearhead Cheltenham’s response to Covid-19: the Cheltenham Economic Recovery Task Force. Hosted by Cheltenham Council, the initiative brings TRANSPORT UPDATE: together senior leaders from Working to across the public and private fix the traffic sector to help drive forward congestion problem for the town’s post-Covid the long term economic recovery. PLANS FOR 2021 An immediate area of focus will be Cheltenham town The Golden Valley Development will a clear timetable, and offer advance centre, including immediate attract many people and businesses warning of any changes along with interventions to support the to the region. We want to ensure that, regular updates, while ensuring that continued safe reopening from a transport perspective, these solutions are effective, long-term and of the town and use of new jobs and activities are supported by sustainable. public spaces in line with outstanding infrastructure that meets As everyone who lives and works in the government advice. the current and future needs of residents, area knows, traffic congestion already visitors and businesses. exists in and around Cheltenham west. In the medium term, the This is how we get to fix the problem for Task Force is looking to THERE’S NO SUGAR COATING THE PILL the long term. The current programme drive many of the priorities Development means disruption. Our aim falls into four phases: supported by the Golden is to minimise its impact, give residents ► Phase 1 and 2 – Residents will be Valley Development aware that work on the Arle Court including: Roundabout to M5 Junction 11 started ► Encouraging skills in June 2020. This is currently slightly development among It’s worth emphasising ahead of schedule and we are optimistic young and disadvantaged that Covid-19 control that all works in these phases will be residents measures have been completed by summer 2021. ► Supporting local start-up ► Phase 3 and 4 – Walking and cycling and scale-up businesses fully adopted by improvements between Arle Court and to obtain and retain contractors in the Cheltenham Station began in January local talent course of this project 2021 and will run until late 2021/early ► Engaging with the and that the sequencing 2022. cyber community to develop opportunities of some of the more Gloucestershire County Council Highways and maximise benefit to disruptive elements of team held a ‘meet-the-contractor’ event Cheltenham and the wider the programme around in February so residents could find out Gloucestershire region national lockdowns has more about the implications of walking and cycling improvement in the region. The Task Force’s business reduced the impact on If you missed it, the recording and other plan can be downloaded at the travelling public. information on the project can be found movingtocheltenham.com, at https://bit.ly/2PUE9xJ. along with details of how you can get involved.

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p10-11.indd 10 18/03/2021 16:12 GOLDEN VALLEY IS GOOD LOCAL FEMTECH NEWS FOR START-UPS Early headlines around the Golden Valley FIRM SCOOPS Development understandably focused on the big numbers and the jobs global tech giants will bring to the area. But, as Kamal Bechkoum MAJOR NATIONAL of Gloucestershire University points out on pp14-15, what’s equally exciting is the energy, enterprise and opportunity start-ups and scale-up businesses bring to the table. INNOVATION

Salus Cyber recently announced that it has doubled its turnover since its hard launch just AWARD before the start of the coronavirus pandemic. It has also doubled its staff from three to six A Gloucestershire and live healthcare launching with consultants. The firm specialises in penetration entrepreneur who specialists to assist Apple AppStore in testing – otherwise known as ethical hacking – was part of the women who are May, and raising which digs deep into a security system to find Oscar-winning having problems equity investment. any weaknesses. visual effects team getting their baby Our aim is to behind Hollywood to latch. get in front of as blockbusters has many mothers and “This development won Innovate UK's “I’m proud to be mothers-to-be 2021 Women in a part of the West as possible in the further solidifies Innovation Award Country’s innovative shortest possible for her breastfeeding tech community,” time. This is tech Cheltenham’s and early says Chen. “The specifically designed parenthood app. Dr award is great – to address a huge position as the cyber Chen Mao Davies’s but it’s just the healthcare and business LatchAid beginning. We are societal issue that hub of the UK,” uses interactive 3D currently partnering really hasn’t received tech, AI, virtual with three NHS the attention peer support groups trusts for app pilots, it deserves.” Jason Kalwa, Salus Cyber’s Managing & Technical Director, believes Golden Valley is good news for the future of his business. “This development further solidifies Cheltenham’s position as the cyber hub of the UK,” he says. “It will allow large and small businesses alike GROWTH HUB CyNam to innovate, collaborate and recruit the next generation of UK cyber consultants through both academia and apprenticeships. There are OPENS IN KICKS OFF exciting times ahead that Salus Cyber is proud to be a part of. As a local SME, the benefits and facilities coming to the region will be fantastic, CHELTENHAM THE YEAR especially as a business that wants to recruit locally – all our consultants are currently Cheltenham Growth Hub opened in CyNam (Cyber Cheltenham) based in Cheltenham.” launched its first event of March with free virtual advice and the year with a webinar that consultancy to support self-employed explored the extent to which data breaches are now individuals, start-ups and SMEs across inevitable. Should we accept that nothing is totally secure all business sectors, acting as a platform and prepare accordingly? Or for innovation, creativity and commerce. can cyber innovation help save the day in 2021? These The physical opening in the town centre are big questions. Some of is scheduled later in the year. More the answers can be found in the recording of the event: Jason Kalwa, Managing & Technical Director, Salus Cyber details at https://bit.ly/2OOvmNb https://bit.ly/3l9oiH3

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p10-11.indd 11 18/03/2021 16:14 SKILLS / APPRENTICESHIPS

“ THE GOLDEN VALLEY INITIATIVE IS MUSIC TO MY EARS” Gloucestershire College doesn’t just cater for 16–19-year- olds; a significant proportion of its students are mature

Alison Townsend, Head of Marketing at Gloucestershire College, talks to GV about the Golden Valley Development and what it will mean to the college, the students and the area in the coming years.

The Golden Valley Development is hugely important for Gloucestershire College (GC), our students and the wider community. First of all, we have our computing and cyber courses themselves. With everything from Level 2 qualifications (equivalent to GCSE), all the way up to degree and degree apprenticeship level, we are very strategically aligned with the plans for Cyber Central UK, and its close proximity to our Cheltenham campus is ideal.

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p12-13.indd 12 18/03/2021 16:17 “APPLICATIONS FOR OUR HIGHER EDUCATION LEVEL COURSES HAVE DOUBLED COMPARED TO LAST YEAR”

Gloucestershire College is the largest training provider in the county The development will bring wide-ranging opportunities UWE, Weston College in Somerset, Bath College and to Cheltenham and Gloucestershire – and not just in the Yeovil College – formed to create more higher technical area of IT; the ongoing build is good news for our non- educational opportunities. Funding to the tune of cyber related courses, particularly those addressing the £3 million has enabled us to refurbish our teaching construction and trade sectors. space and create a brand-new education suite including new cyber and computing facilities, an engineering In the longer term, our courses in marketing, business admin, centre and a cyber-attack and defence room. AAT, HR, hospitality and customer services will be hugely popular as businesses move into the area and the associated The options and enhanced experience this brings to opportunities multiply. The development really will support students is simply incredible. All of this makes university- the whole suite of business-related study – and those level qualifications more visible to those who wouldn’t students in turn will go on to support the development of a otherwise have considered them, and we are seeing large network of businesses coming to the area. an increased level of interest from under-represented sectors of the community, which is fantastic. PLACEMENT OPPORTUNITIES The opportunities for work experience and work-based- In short, the Golden Valley initiative is music to my ears – learning are also phenomenal. Our apprentices need a and with such a long-phased development planned, the company to sponsor them and provide the work setting impact and effect of the opportunities will be felt for many for them to continue their learning, so having a wealth of years to come. We are inundated with apprenticeship placement opportunities so close to our campus will be applications, so this presents a fantastic chance for local immensely valuable. businesses involved with the Golden Valley development both to offer valuable work training to local students and Of course we offer a wide range of courses for also to enhance their workforce at the same time. 16–19-year-olds, but it’s also worth noting that a significant proportion of our students are mature, and SKILLS AND AMBITIONS we are seeing an increase in people seeking further At GC, we work with our applicants to place them in training while in the workplace, or retraining due to job companies that best match their skills and ambitions. losses – something which will increase as the impact of As the largest training provider in the county, we have the pandemic eases. an amazing talent pool and a dedicated team which supports them at every stage. We hope that by using Applications for our higher education level courses local companies to support local students, we can have doubled compared to last year, and the Golden encourage graduates to stay in the county to find work. Valley Development is a large part of that uplift. There We need to stem the flood of high-calibre graduates is a marked increase in interest from students from leaving the area, and this initiative gives us the perfect Cheltenham schools as well. This type of inward opportunity to do so. investment will help to secure Cheltenham as a destination for people to live, learn and work. In fact the This project will really transform Cheltenham and put cohort that commences their studies in September this us on the map – globally as well as within the UK. We year will be graduating when the development is well could become the Silicon Valley of the UK – perhaps underway and already generating opportunities. even of Europe. The potential really is that great.

DIGITAL INCUBATION HUB To succeed, all of this will need to be supported by Our commitment to growing cyber and computing affordable housing as well. It is reassuring to see that opportunities for our county is also reflected in our digital this is also part of the plan. This area of Cheltenham will incubation hub, which opens this September. This has been become a beautiful destination in which to live, work and secured with funding from GFirst LEP and offers valuable unwind with the leisure and hospitality amenities that workspace for digital start-ups. In return, the start-ups will are part of the garden community concept. provide opportunities for work experience for our students. We should all be very proud of this development. We are also very proud of our partnership with the Speaking for myself, I can’t wait to see the benefits that West of England Institute of Technology – alongside it will bring to all areas of our community.

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p12-13.indd 13 18/03/2021 16:19 EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL Gloucestershire’s Golden brings together academia, government agencies, and businesses large and small to create technology Valley Development will be solutions and skills for the future.

transformational not just We already have huge intellectual capital around cyber for scientists and businesses technology in the region. This project will take it to the next level, attracting not just UK businesses and jobs but for everyone. Professor to Gloucestershire, but also foreign enterprise and Kamal Bechkoum, Head investment. of School (Computing and “The university SKILLS AND LEADERSHIP Engineering), University of is committed As an example close to home, the university’s work to taking the in cyber security education and research, including Gloucestershire, describes the community involvement in the Golden Valley Development, led to a joint project funded by the German government to huge potential benefits of cyber with us on this establish a cyber security centre in Düren. Of course, innovation for everybody. journey” it’s important that this brings funding to the university. However, it also frames the region’s skills and leadership Professor Kamal Bechkoum in an international context. And this is just the beginning.

The Golden Valley Development is a once-in-a- This is why Golden Valley is also a significant generation opportunity for Cheltenham, Tewkesbury development for UK plc and the government’s post- and the surrounding region. I say this not just from the Brexit ambitions to lead the world in key areas of university’s perspective but also as a local resident. science and technology.

Personally, I am extremely excited by the proposals We’ve all seen the impact the clustering of expertise in around transport improvements and sustainable housing life sciences has had on the astonishing development of – and the job opportunities the development will bring. vaccines in the UK. I believe this new project can drive a clustering of expertise, innovation and enterprise in the From a professional perspective, this project is literally cyber and digital space that could be equally influential transformational. It is about creating a space that in years to come. " All of this can best be achieved by the coming together…

Right: The Golden Valley vision aligns with the strategic direction of the University of Gloucestershire

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p14-15.indd 14 18/03/2021 16:22 …of technical and commercial expertise"

The Golden Valley vision also aligns with the strategic everyone. International brands attract other big brands; direction of the University of Gloucestershire. Right innovative start-ups attract other start-ups. The result is now, we’re writing our 10-year development plan, and an innovation cluster at the heart of our community. this will be built around our conviction that, while we’ll continue to foster world-class specialist expertise, this IMPROVEMENTS FOR ALL will be done in full recognition of the interdependencies However, if the Golden Valley Development is to realise between related subject areas. Siloes – systems its full potential it needs to do more than that. It needs to operating in isolation from each other – make no sense improve lives and opportunities for all local residents – in situations that increasingly require holistic thinking. not just the ones with a degree or those already working in the tech sector. NEW SKILLS AND COLLABORATIONS Tackling the cyber threats of the future requires new skills The university is committed to taking and collaborations. That of course includes collaborations the community with us on this journey. between IT experts and security experts with a forward- For example, working with our partners looking understanding of the threat landscape. However, at the Institute of Coding we are looking it also includes collaborations between individuals with to secure funding for a programme of specialist understanding of the systems required for the regional Digital Skills Bootcamps. Through secure and efficient operation of business and society, this initiative we aim to equip citizens of and software developers who understand the possibilities Gloucestershire with the information and skills required Gloucestershire University aims to equip our citizens and limitations of assurance and who have the abilities to to make the most of opportunities like Golden Valley. with the information and embed resilience into systems from the start. skills to make the most of opportunities like This focus on inclusivity is important. But it can be Golden Valley All of this can best be achieved by the coming together lost in headlines that – quite rightly –emphasise the of technical and commercial expertise, the unexpected synergies associated with Cyber Central and GCHQ, friendships and happy accidents that occur when people and the development of a global centre of excellence in from different sectors and backgrounds come together cyber tech in the region. in a space like Golden Valley. For me, what is equally exciting is the broader We talk a lot about this project attracting technical ecosystem of businesses that will be drawn to the expertise and businesses to the region. This, in turn, area as a result of all this activity – and the huge will boost the overall local economy, which benefits opportunities this represents for the entire community.

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p14-15.indd 15 18/03/2021 16:23 ENTERPRISE CLOSER TO THE BUZZ! Bamboo Technology is a local business – Cheltenham born and bred – specialising in digitally assured information and communications technology and software. Last year it moved to a new home, near GCHQ. Lorrin White, the company’s CEO, explains why.

Bamboo Technology has been supplying in the area.Often Cheltenham is simply seen foundation to show what Gloucestershire businesses with telephony and as a nice place to live and work. There’s so can achieve on an international stage. communications support for more than much more. two decades. In 2020 it relocated from its GV: What does being part of Cyber Central Cheltenham town centre headquarters to a Cheltenham is incredibly accessible from mean to Bamboo – what inspired your move to new suite of offices in the Gloucestershire many of the UK’s major cities and has be close to it? College campus near GCHQ. a great academic scene as well. There’s LW: The purpose of Bamboo is to support a real concentration of intelligence and and enable growth. This project is all about GV magazine (GV) talked to Lorrin (LW) technology-focused businesses that protect business futures and people’s lives – the two about why the move is pivotal to continuing and underpin the Gloucestershire, UK are intrinsically linked. It was logical that the company’s current phase of growth and wider international economies. In we move to be closer to the buzz and activity and success. recent years, there’s been what feels like a around this development. We had been deliberate programme of introduction and looking to move for many years but hadn’t GV: Cyber Central is a forward-thinking project commercialisation of the more specialised found the right space until recently. – what makes Cheltenham the best place for it? technology services that would typically LW: There is a real passion and desire from be associated with GCHQ. The National Our latest business developments have also the business community to put Gloucestershire Cyber Security Centre and others are seen us moving into the threat intelligence on the map and there’s a wealth of driving awareness and development of this and digital assurance space so that when fantastically successful businesses already important sector and this has provided the we introduce new communications and IT services to a customer we ensure the risk is managed too. Being part of this drive truly “Realising this project will matches our updated service offering. There’s also a talent acquisition element – we want to make Cheltenham more be embedded in upskilling the county. Being close to and part of the education sector is a widely known and attract really important element of that.

talent from around the world.” GV: What are the biggest challenges Lorrin White, CEO, Bamboo Technology to overcome? LW: The build itself is the biggest single challenge and there will likely be disruption

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p16-17.indd 16 18/03/2021 16:26 THE IMPACT OF CHANGE ON THE AREA AND THE WIDER ECONOMY

A fast-changing region now has the chance to create its own identity as a major UK economic centre, says Lorrin White. The development will attract inward investment to endure. That said, from my relations with and the attention of international markets. the Local Enterprise Partnership I know that In fact it’s already happening. it will be managed and, in the long run, it will all be worth it. As Lorrin points out, “With big tech companies joining the existing presence GV: What are the more interesting of Microsoft in Cheltenham, this isn’t new. opportunities the development offers It’s building on a foundation that is already for the area? thriving. Threat intelligence and technology LW: When you look at the economic reports is a big focus for Gloucestershire already. CREATING OUR OWN IDENTITY OUR OWN CREATING for Gloucestershire, it’s clear that there is a This project positively promotes us and need to stem the flow of graduates leaving puts us on the map as a future-focused The Bamboo the county, so ultimately one of the most magnet county.” Technology team: important opportunities is that of talent “Being part of this drive truly acquisition and retention. Cheltenham She continues, “The inclusion of start- matches our ups and entrepreneurial businesses will updated service may be seen as all ‘tweed and picturesque offering.” houses’, but we are so much more than be a strong driving force along with the that. Realising this project will make that attraction of R&D investment, engagement more widely known and attract talent with universities and incubation hubs. The from around the world. The residential already thriving legal and professional development will create a fantastic, vibrant, sectors in Cheltenham will also benefit sustainable community too – just what through increased patents and trademarks business needs. being developed right here.”

Cheltenham has the potential to become But that’s far from all. She predicts an a destination and a living choice for all increase in alternative network providers ages – beyond cyber. It’s about technology as the digital infrastructure needs and innovation as a whole. The business investment. “This in itself is an economic incubators, entrepreneurial hubs and benefit for all as faster connections will start-ups that will follow the development benefit residential and existing commercial will all contribute to a brighter, more entities, attracting yet more businesses to engaged Cheltenham. our fantastic towns and county.”

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2605 GV01 Spring21 p16-17.indd 17 18/03/2021 16:27 WHAT IS THE SO IS IT ALL GOLDEN VALLEY ABOUT CYBER? GOLDEN VALLEY DEVELOPMENT? ► No. The focus on cyber is about ► A new integrated and attracting investment and sustainable community opportunities to the area for the for Cheltenham and long term. The Golden Valley initiative aims the surrounding area. ► to create approximately 12,000 This will be a unique, high quality jobs, benefiting the landscaped, campus-style local economy and encouraging garden community, with international talent to the area. local appeal, national ► Golden Valley will include the interest and global development of around 3,700 significance. homes, with a target of 40% of those being affordable. There The development will ► are localised high demands for become the heart of domestic, office and industrial the region’s technology spaces, all of which would sector and a global hub benefit from the Golden Valley for cyber technologies development. WHO IS BEHIND and digital innovation. THE PROJECT? ► Cyber Central UK will be a new campus-style Leadership of the project ► innovation zone that is provided by a joint governance board bringing will be the commercial WHAT ARE THE SCHEME’S together Cheltenham heart of the Golden CORE OBJECTIVES? and Tewkesbury Borough Valley Development and Councils, Gloucestershire is expected to become ► To create a world-class living and County Council, Homes the UK home of cyber, working space that challenges England and GFirst LEP. The supporting the UK in existing standards of design and project’s primary commercial becoming a global leader sustainability, particularly in partner will be announced in the cyber tech sector. response to the climate change July 2021. agenda. ► The site is adjacent to ► To create a dedicated campus the iconic GCHQ building. for the cyber-tech community A total of 200Ha (nearly that drives economic activity and 500 acres) of land has creates jobs in the region and WHY BUILD CYBER been designated for inspires a vibrant, integrated, CENTRAL UK IN potential development, inclusive and diverse range of uses with 132Ha allocated and activities, serving existing and CHELTENHAM? and a further 68Ha new communities, while making 'safeguarded'. The effective use of land. ► Cheltenham is already a centre site straddles both ► To plan with the landscape of national excellence for cyber front of mind to create new Cheltenham and security. In addition to GCHQ, the climate-resilient environments surroundings have a concentration Tewkesbury boroughs which integrate with the of businesses working in the cyber from a local authority existing landscape and support sector that is 11x the national point of view. biodiversity. average. ► The Development ► To build outstanding infrastructure ► The M5 and A40 connect to will build a mixture of that meets the current and future many other cities by car and residential and business needs of residents, visitors and public transport – the railway businesses. spaces. The priority is station and Gloucestershire ► To create a development that to create a diverse and Airport are very close by. is supported by future-looking ► 20 universities are within a vibrant neighbourhood, transport infrastructure, including 75-minute drive so it is a prime ensuring residents and a connected network of green spot for technological research. workers enjoy healthy, off-road routes encouraging ► Cheltenham itself is a biodiverse environments greater walking and cycling, and thriving town with a diverse which encourage physical, design which prioritises the needs cultural scene from the mental and social of people and sustainable modes Cheltenham Festivals to the wellbeing. of transport. Cheltenham Races.

18 THE GOLDEN VALLEY DEVELOPMENT

2605 GV01 Spring21 p18-19.indd 18 18/03/2021 19:05 USEFUL LINKS

The Golden Valley Development – www.goldenvalleyuk.com We’re Moving to Cheltenham – www.movingtocheltenham.com West Cheltenham Cyber Central Garden Community – http://bit.ly/2Q2hD5U

LOCAL COUNCIL NEWS Cheltenham – www.cheltenham.gov.uk/news Tewkesbury – www.tewkesbury.gov.uk/latest-news

GOVERNMENT Department for Culture, Media and Sport – bit.ly/3eK9Kwe Building Digital UK – www.gov.uk/guidance/building-digital-uk The National Cyber Security Centre – www.ncsc.gov.uk Chancellor’s speech to GCHQ 2015 – bit.ly/2Nn74td

GARDEN COMMUNITIES Garden Cities Institute – www.gardencitiesinstitute.com Town and Country Planning Association – www.tcpa.org.uk NEXT ISSUE… Tewkesbury Garden Town – www.tewkesburygardentown.co.uk Garden Communities – www.gov.uk/government/publications/garden-communities

INNOVATION AND CYBER SECURITY ► We hope to announce which CyNam (Cyber Cheltenham) – cynam.org developer we’ll be working Cygenta – demystifying cyber security – www.cygenta.co.uk with to turn the Golden Valley vision into reality and reveal EDUCATION AND CAREERS some of the detail around the Gloucester College – www.glos.ac.uk winning submission Gloucestershire University – www.glos.ac.uk CyNam – The Next Gen – cynam.org/the-next-gen/ ► What do local people want CyberFirst Schools – www.cyberfirstschools.co.uk from the Golden Valley The National Cyber Security Centre – www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberfirst/overview Development? We hear from www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberfirst/bursary-and-degree-apprenticeship local community groups. www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/education-skills/11-19-year-olds Cyber Discovery – the government’s free online extracurricular programme joincyberdiscovery.com ► Golden Valley is all about Teach Computing – teachcomputing.org bringing jobs and opportunities GFirst LEP Skills Portal – www.skillsportalglos.com to the region. What do students and young people expect from ENTERPRISE the development? We speak with The Growth Hub – www.thegrowthhub.biz students from local schools. GFirst LEP – www.gfirstlep.com Bamboo Technology Group – www.bamboo.tech ► The Cheltenham Science Business Innovation Magazine – www.businessinnovationmag.co.uk Group is a community interest

LIFESTYLE group that aims to inspire a Marketing Cheltenham – marketingcheltenham.co.uk/ new generation to love science, SoGlos – www.soglos.com/ technology, engineering The Jockey Club – www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/events-tickets/the-festival/ and maths. How can the Cheltenham Festivals – www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/ Golden Valley initiative support Visit Cheltenham – www.visitcheltenham.com/things-to-do its ambitions?

TRANSPORT West Cheltenham transport improvement scheme – bit.ly/2PUE9xJ

2605 GV01 Spring21 p18-19.indd 19 18/03/2021 16:31 RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES LOCAL FIRMS BUYING LOCALLY CREATE BUY GOODS AND 3 STILL MORE LOCAL JOBS SUCCESSFUL LOCAL FIRMS 2 SERVICES FROM AND RESIDENTS SUPPORT OTHER LOCAL 4 MORE LOCAL CHARITIES BUSINESSES

LOCAL FIRMS LOCAL WORKING MEANS HIRE LOCAL LESS TRAVELLING, 1 PEOPLE WHO 5 MORE TIME WITH FAMILY SPEND MONEY AND FRIENDS WITH OTHER LOCAL FIRMS

BUILDING A BETTER local economy FOR GLOUCESTERSHIRE One of the main aims of the Golden Valley Development is to build a thriving economy in the region in a way that is sustainable and improves lives. One of the ways we hope to do this is to encourage local spending and talent to stay local – creating a virtuous circle of prosperity.

LESS TRAVELLING A STRONG SAVES MONEY ECOSYSTEM 6 AND THE PLANET 10 COMBINING LOCAL INNOVATION WITH GLOBAL BRANDS EQUALS GREAT LOCAL FIRMS PRIORITISE A PROSPEROUS TRAINING WHICH RAISES THE REGIONAL ECONOMY A RICH TALENT POOL 7 LOCAL TALENT POOL AND SPECIALIST 9 SKILLS ATTRACT BIG A VIBRANT LOCAL ECONOMY EMPLOYERS KEEPS YOUNG PEOPLE AND 8 TALENT IN THE REGION WWW.GOLDENVALLEYUK.COM

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