LGBTQ hub to open 'after 10-year gap'

Richard Stevens says there is a need for a space dedicated to LGBTQ people

An LGBTQ community hub is opening after a 10-year gap, a business owner says.

Richard Stevens, the managing director of Proud Gloucester, is opening a cafe and pizza parlour on Kings Square, Gloucester, in October.

He said there had not been a dedicated space for LGBTQ people in Gloucester in more than 10 years.

"There's a need for a space for LGBTQ people to go and socialise. It's more than just a cafe - it's a community hub where groups can come together," Mr Stevens said.

The cafe will be a not-for-profit venture.

Mr Stevens said: "The reception has been amazing. There's a real buzz building about this and about Gloucester as a city and it's been really exciting.

"I was at the Gloucester Day celebrations yesterday and people were excited about Proud Gloucester."

Gloucester City Council said "something vibrant and inclusive" was coming to Kings Square.

"Work is officially under way to transform an empty shop into Proud Gloucester, a dynamic new venue that's part coffee shop, part bar, part pizza café, and a welcoming multi-purpose space for the LGBTQ community and everyone else," the council added.