Located between junctions 11a and 12 of the M5 motorway in Gloucestershire, England, Gloucestershire Services is a popular stop for travelers and commuters alike. The services, which are operated by Gloucestershire Gateway Trust, a charity established to oversee the development and management of the site, have become a landmark on the M5 motorway. The trust's aim is to provide a unique and welcoming environment that showcases the best of Gloucestershire's local produce, crafts, and community spirit.
History and Development
The concept of Gloucestershire Services was first proposed in the early 1990s, with the aim of creating a motorway service station that would not only provide the usual amenities for travelers but also celebrate the local culture and environment of Gloucestershire. After years of planning and development, the services finally opened in May 2014. The site was designed by Glenn Howells Architects, who incorporated sustainable and environmentally friendly features, such as a living roof and a rainwater harvesting system, to minimize the services’ impact on the surrounding countryside.
Facilities and Amenities
Gloucestershire Services offers a wide range of facilities and amenities, including a petrol station, a restaurant, a cafe, a shop, and a children’s play area. The restaurant and cafe serve a variety of local and seasonal dishes, using produce sourced from Gloucestershire farmers and suppliers whenever possible. The shop sells a range of local products, including food, crafts, and souvenirs. The services also feature a garden and a nature reserve, which provide a peaceful oasis for travelers to relax and unwind.
| Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | Serves local and seasonal dishes |
| Cafe | Offers a range of hot and cold drinks and snacks |
| Shop | Sells local products, including food, crafts, and souvenirs |
| Petrol Station | Provides fuel and other motoring services |
| Children's Play Area | Features a play structure and seating area for parents |
Community Engagement and Initiatives
Gloucestershire Services is more than just a motorway service station - it is also a hub for community engagement and initiatives. The trust that operates the services is committed to supporting local businesses, charities, and community groups, and has established a number of programs and initiatives to promote these goals. For example, the services host regular events and exhibitions showcasing local art, crafts, and produce, and provide meeting and conference facilities for local businesses and organizations.
Environmental Initiatives
Gloucestershire Services has also been recognized for its environmental initiatives, which include the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar power, and the implementation of a comprehensive recycling program. The services have also been designed to minimize their impact on the surrounding countryside, with features such as a living roof and a rainwater harvesting system. The trust that operates the services is committed to continuing to reduce its environmental footprint and to promote sustainability in all aspects of its operations.
The success of Gloucestershire Services has been recognized through a number of awards and accolades, including the Michelin Award for Sustainable Operations and the British Institute of Interior Design award for best commercial interior design. These awards are a testament to the trust's commitment to providing a unique and welcoming environment that showcases the best of Gloucestershire's local produce, crafts, and community spirit.
What facilities are available at Gloucestershire Services?
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Gloucestershire Services offers a range of facilities, including a petrol station, a restaurant, a cafe, a shop, and a children’s play area.
What types of food are served at the restaurant and cafe?
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The restaurant and cafe serve a variety of local and seasonal dishes, using produce sourced from Gloucestershire farmers and suppliers whenever possible.
What community engagement initiatives are in place at Gloucestershire Services?
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Gloucestershire Services hosts regular events and exhibitions showcasing local art, crafts, and produce, and provides meeting and conference facilities for local businesses and organizations.
