cheltenham’s gchq to get a massive, cyber-oriented tech startup campus right next door

Cheltenham's Growing Tech Hub

Established in the 1950s, the U.K.'s Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) in Cheltenham has been a magnet for major technology companies. Firms such as IBM, Raytheon, Microsoft, and BAE Systems have all established a presence in the region.

Alongside these established players, a vibrant startup ecosystem has flourished. Companies like Truststamp, Bamboo Technologies, Ripjar, Hub8, and CYNAM originated within the city’s boundaries.

Attracting Talent and Investment

This concentration of organizations naturally attracts a skilled workforce. Cheltenham is now proactively seeking to draw in more entrepreneurs, investors, and startups.

The recent pandemic has prompted a reassessment of priorities for many professionals. Individuals are increasingly seeking improved lifestyles and greater access to natural environments.

Cheltenham intends to capitalize on its existing association with GCHQ, particularly its focus on cybersecurity, to enhance its appeal.

The Golden Valley Development

In 2019, Cheltenham Borough Council invested £37.5 million in acquiring 45 hectares of land adjacent to GCHQ. This purchase was strategically made to foster the expanding cybersecurity and technology community.

Following a year-long selection process, the council designated Factory and HBD (formerly Henry Boot Developments) as preferred bidders to spearhead the development.

The ultimate vision is to expand the area to 200 hectares, positioning it as one of the largest tech startup campuses in Europe.

Factory, renowned for its large-scale tech campuses in Berlin and Lisbon, will collaborate with U.K. developer HBD and the council on this project, currently known as Golden Valley.

Projected Impact and Design Principles

The development is anticipated to generate 12,000 new employment opportunities. It will also include 2 million square feet of office space and 3,700 new homes.

The project will embrace the principles of the Garden City movement, pioneered in the late 19th century by Ebenezer Howard.

“This represents a unique opportunity – a project unlike any other,” stated Jeremy Bamberg, Factory’s project lead. “By integrating technology, nature, and innovation, we aim to transform the area into Europe’s most intelligent Garden District, offering a compelling alternative to the pressures of urban living.”

Factory Cheltenham and Future Collaboration

The initial phase of the project will focus on constructing Factory Cheltenham.

Julian Breinersdorfer, who has recently joined Factory, will oversee the architecture and design, drawing on his experience from similar projects in Berlin and Lisbon.

“We sought a partner capable of realizing the council’s ambitious vision,” explained Tim Atkins of Cheltenham Borough Council. “HBD and Factory have demonstrated a shared commitment to these goals and, crucially, a clear plan for translating them into a thriving, impactful entity within Cheltenham, while also contributing to the global cyber sector.”