The Citizen is preparing a plan to quit its current offices at St John's Lane in Gloucester and move to another site in the city.

The project, which should come to fruition during the next 15 months or so, would see the paper retain a prominent city centre location to replace the current reception office.

But the main accommodation could well be located out of the centre, with priorities outlined in a development document for an open-plan set-up, with a flexible design and good parking, as well as having good public transport links.

The idea has been backed by owners Northcliffe Newspapers and executives from parent company Daily Mail General Trust's property department are searching for a new base. It could be new-build or an existing modern property refurbished to meet the company's needs.

The final choice will be a site that delivers the "greatest overall benefit for staff and the company".

All personnel currently employed at St John's Lane would transfer to the new building or the new reception office.

Gloucestershire Media said the idea came about after the management proposed moving Gloucester-based departments to a new building because "no other practical option" would meet the standards of accommodation sought for all staff.

It is possible that the project could be tied in with a move for the Stroud district office.

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