Gloucester’s King’s Quarter has been named the UK’s best long-term regeneration initiative for 2025, picking up a prestigious national award that recognises its transformational impact on the city centre.

The multi-million-pound redevelopment was praised for helping to make Gloucester city centre relevant again, following years of carefully planned investment and delivery. With its two major projects now nearing completion, King’s Quarter has been recognised as a standout example of long-term regeneration done properly.

The award was presented by Revo, the national retail and leisure property organisation, whose annual awards are regarded as the benchmark for excellence across the sector. King’s Quarter saw off competition from some of the UK’s biggest regeneration schemes, including major phases of London’s £3 billion Wembley Park development.

Judges described King’s Quarter as a blueprint for other town centres, highlighting its clear vision, strong delivery and measurable outcomes. The Best Long-Term Regeneration Initiative award celebrates projects that creatively redefine existing assets while delivering positive economic, social and community benefits.

King’s Quarter brings together The Forum, King’s Walk Shopping Centre, King’s Square and Gloucester Transport Hub. Judges were particularly impressed by the reimagining of the former Debenhams department store into a new University of Gloucestershire campus, alongside the delivery of vibrant, high-quality workspace at The Forum.

The judging panel praised the significant social and economic benefits created by the scheme, stating that King’s Quarter shows how town centres can become resilient, relevant and successful once again.

Vivienne King, chair of the executive board at Revo, said King’s Quarter is a powerful example of what bold and creative thinking can achieve. She described the project as a model that encourages local authorities to back their places with confidence and vision, and a testament to the exceptional team behind its delivery.

Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, which led the development of The Forum, said the award was wonderful news for the city. He added that winning such a prestigious national accolade shows just how ambitious and transformative King’s Quarter has been for Gloucester, and highlighted the pride in seeing the city recognised on a national stage.

Today, King’s Quarter continues to grow as a place to work, study, shop, meet and enjoy events, playing a central role in shaping Gloucester’s future while strengthening its city centre for generations to come.