Business Support

Forest of Dean District Council's Sustainable Development team is committed to helping all businesses to succeed and to maintaining a  healthy local economy.

We encourage start-ups as they plan their first steps and we provide services to help established businesses continue their growth. We also support relocating businesses to achieve a fast and effective transition to a new and profitable environment.This can involve referring businesses to other teams within the district council or to local or regional business support services, which are keen to help you, whether it’s with training, capital investment or business advice on critical management issues.

Advice on starting or managing a business

If you are looking for information, advice or support on starting, running or growing a business please call James Woodcock, Economic Development Officer on 01594 812610 or email: james.woodcock@fdean.gov.uk .

James can put you in contact with Business Link South West, who offer advice by telephone or through regular advice sessions in the Forest of Dean. 

Business Premises

If you are looking for premises for your business please click on the following link: Business Premises

Business Grants

If you are looking to identify any grants for which your business may be eligible please click on the following link: Business Grants

Local trade promotion

The Sustainable Development team operates a campaign called 'First Stop - Local Shop' to help Forest of Dean businesses promote their products and services to local people. Read more  

Tourism

The Sustainable Development team provides a complete advice and support service for anyone starting or running a tourism business. Read more

Other council services

Forest of Dean District Council offers a range of other advice and services for businesses, including the following:

• Building control
• Commercial waste
• Health & environment
• Housing advice
• Planning & development control

 To find out more please click on the following link: Council services

For further information please call James Woodcock, Economic Development Officer, on 01594 812610 or email: james.woodcock@fdean.gov.uk