Plans for Tewkesbury Garden Town have been paused by the new borough council.

The news was announced yesterday (May 17) by the new council leader, at the first AGM of Tewkesbury Borough Council since the local elections last week.

Cllr Richard Stanley (Lib Dem), who represents Cleeve West ward, said: "I want to start this council how we wish to go on: by telling the residents of our borough that we are already listening. This is why we are pausing the Tewkesbury Garden Town programme pending the outcome of a full external review. I am clear that if the Garden Town project is to succeed, it must be done in partnership with the surrounding communities and local parish councils.

"Balancing the need for housing, managing growth fairly and protecting existing communities is a key challenge of our council. We have to deliver for residents and communities, and it is crucial we develop our strategic plans to protect our housing land supply."

Garden Town status was approved by Government in 2018, specifically aimed at helping the council deliver in excess of 10,000 houses for Tewkesbury and Ashchurch before 2041.

Garden Town status meant the council would be better equipped to meet future housing need and provide space for new businesses, while maintaining the feel of the town.

Cllr Stanley continued: "The people of Tewkesbury Borough have put their trust in all of us to represent them; our wards are all unique and we all bring a different insight and knowledge of our communities that deserve to be heard and respected.

"I very much look forward to working with all of you. Leading the largest party in a no-overall-control council will certainly not be without its challenges but we are up for that challenge and determined to bring positive change for our borough."

Thirty-eight newly-elected borough councillors - 16 new and 22 returning - attended the first annual general meeting of the council last night (May 17).

Cllr Sarah Hands (Lib Dem), who represents the Innsworth ward, was elected as deputy leader of the council.