August is one of the quieter months of the civic year. But residents' casework still needs attention and training meetings are constant either on Teams or at Ebley Mill. Cllrs Kitchen, Braun & Cohen also attended the council meeting at Wotton-under-Edge.

Council meetings 

No public SDC meetings were held in August. The Development Control Committee scheduled for the 25th was cancelled.

Other news 

District Council by-election An election will be held for Kingswood Ward (covering Kingswood, Alderley and Hillesley & Tresham parishes) on Wednesday 2 September, following the resignation of Cllr Holly Simkiss, for personal reasons. During the election period, councillors are not featured in council press releases or other publicity, in line with pre-election guidance.

Community fundraising workshops Since the Stroud Funding project across Stroud district launched in 2024, more than £588,000 has been raised for community projects, thanks to over 3,500 local backers which have helped fund 30 successful projects so far. Projects have supported youth services, community growing work, arts initiatives, support networks and wider community benefits.

Ahead of the fourth round of Stroud Funding, two free workshops are planned for any community groups, charities or local organisations which would like to find out more about how the funding programme works, what support is available and how to give an application the best chance of success. Register here for the in person or online workshop: – https://www.spacehive.com/programme/stroud/about

• 9 September, 6pm to 7.30pm – at the Museum in the Park, Stratford Park, Stroud.
• 10 September, Online, 6pm to 7pm.

There's still time to support many Round 3 projects, including the project to fundraise for new play equipment for North Nibley Play Area:
– https://www.spacehive.com/north-nibley-play-area-for-all

New tourism film showcases Stroud district A new promotional film celebrating Stroud district's unique mix of adventure, relaxation, nature, food and culture has been launched as part of a campaign to attract more visitors and support local businesses. Created by Stroud District Council, the film showcases the district as a destination where visitors can enjoy both excitement and tranquillity, highlighting spectacular landscapes, vibrant market towns, independent businesses and sustainable travel opportunities. Filmed over five days in June, the project featured local actors and showcased the places and experiences that make Stroud district unique. The crew visited 31 locations and covering 537 miles during filming.

The campaign is aimed primarily at 18 to 35-year-olds looking for a short break and supports the growing trend of micro-tourism – inspiring residents to explore destinations closer to home. A shorter version of the film is being used as a digital advert at rail stations along the Stonehouse to London train route. From 24 August, the advert will appear at Bristol Temple Meads, Swindon, Reading and London Paddington stations, helping to reach thousands of potential visitors while promoting sustainable travel by rail. Additional social media versions of the film will be released in spring 2027. The council worked closely with Visit Stroud which is hosting the film on a dedicated landing page where viewers can find further inspiration and practical information for planning a visit: 

• https://www.visitstroud.uk/Dream

Opportunity for elections work in a polling station Anyone interested in working in a polling station ahead of the Gloucestershire Council elections on 6 May 2027 is invited to visit Stroud District Council's mock polling station at Ebley Mill on Tuesday 22 September from 4pm to 6pm. The drop-in information event will give participants the opportunity to experience first-hand what polling station staff do on election day, such as issuing a ballot paper, reviewing photo ID, and asking questions of elections officers. It is suitable for people who have never worked in a polling station before, as well as experienced polling station staff looking to refresh their knowledge. 

Stroud District Council sets up 105 polling stations during elections, serving more than 97,000 voters. To support this, the council typically recruits around 435 temporary polling station staff. In 2026, fees were £215.20 for a Poll Clerk and £304.20 for a Presiding Officer. These rates are agreed across Gloucestershire and are subject to change for the May 2027 elections. Training will be provided for all successful applicants before the election. For more information about polling station roles and to apply to become a Poll Clerk or Presiding Officer, visit the Elections staffing page on the Stroud District Council website: 

• https://www2.stroud.gov.uk/apps/elections-staffing

Cotswolds Canals restoration project After six years of planning, design and preparation, construction has officially begun on the Missing Mile Project – a landmark stage in reconnecting the historic Cotswold Canals to the national inland waterway network, passing underneath the M5 motorway. This will be one of the final missing links between the restored Stroudwater Navigation and the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal. Once complete, it will bring the vision of a fully navigable canal another significant step closer.

Since securing planning permission in June 2024, the Project Team have worked extensively with National Highways, the Environment Agency, Natural England and local landowners to secure the wide range of permissions, licenses and land agreements required to deliver this nationally significant restoration project. The project is jointly led by Stroud District Council and the Cotswold Canals Trust and is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. – https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/construction-begins-on-the-missing-mile-major-milestone-for-the-cotswold-canals-restoration/

Stratford Park Lido The Lido reopened on Saturday 15th August, following extensive work on the 55 yard long pool tank which has been relined at each end and repainted throughout,refurbishment of the pool pump, and repointing of walls and paving. Book a swim online: – https://myactivelifestyles.co.uk/centres/active-lifestyles-lido/

Community Governance Review A Phase 1 Consultation continues until 9 September for a community governance review for the Parish and Town Council areas of Brimscombe and Thrupp, Chalford, Frampton on Severn, Great Oldbury, Minchinhampton, Standish, Upton St Leonards. – https://www.stroud.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/about-the-council/have-your-say/consultations/community-governance-review-2026-phase-1-consultation/

De-paving campaign Stroud DC is supporting Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust's de-paving campaign. This involves removing hard surfaces, like tarmac or paving slabs, and exchanging them for natural surfaces that rainwater can drain into. This allows water to filter into the soil, slowing the flow of water going into drains which reduces the pressure on them during storms and heavy rainfall. It also means water can recharge the groundwater supply, create areas of habitat for wildlife, removing pollutants from the water as they get trapped in the soil. Soil and gravel also allows wildlife to thrive. A pilot scheme has been running to support collection of paving in parts of Stroud. There's further information and guidance full guidance on how to depave at home online: – https://www.gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk/depaving

Council jobs Numerous jobs being recruited for related to housing, community safety, museums, people management, trees, food, or helping residents access vital support: – https://www.stroud.gov.uk/jobs

Council email newsletter If you'd like to keep up to date with council news, events, service updates and other local information for Stroud district, please sign up for the weekly email bulletin: Sign up here. 

Prepared by Cllr Gareth Kitchen (Green) & Cllr Catherine Braun (Green) based on councillor activity in August with updates from Cllr Linda Cohen (Lib Dem). #sdc

Along with residents' casework, and in addition to council and training meetings at Ebley Mill, Cllrs. Kitchen, Braun & Cohen attended the regular council meetings at North Nibley, Stinchcombe & Wotton-under-Edge.

Council Meetings

Link to meeting agenda and documents in the committee title.

Development Control Committee – 2nd June

• S.23/1451/OUT Land Northwest of Stonehouse, Gloucestershire: The application (validated July 2023) proposes up to 635 residential dwellings (up to 191 affordable), a primary school and sports and recreation facilities.
  An appeal against non-determination of the application had been made by the applicant (Robert Hitchins Limited & Redrow Homes Limited), and the purpose of this Committee meeting was to review the officer's report. The application is opposed by Standish and Great Oldbury parish councils and falls outside of the settlement boundary in the adopted 2015 Local Plan. Committee agreed with the officer recommendation to refuse the application along with reasons but no decision notice will be issued. The outcome will shape the council's engagement with the inspector at the forthcoming appeal in September.
• Video recording (95 views)

Extraordinary Strategy and Resources Committee – 3rd June

• Lido Opening Project Update: Committee agreed to allocate an additional £276,000, bringing the total project cost to £476,000 to repair the Stratford Park Lido in Stroud. The funding covers short-term repairs, enabling works, and essential surveys to put the Lido in the best position possible to reopen for summer 2026 and operate during the 2027 season, while longer-term options for the site continue to be developed in partnership with community representatives. Fortnightly updates on project progress are shared on the SDC website. The 25 June update reports that the principal contractor continues to make good progress in line with the programme. Works are scheduled to be completed with the Lido reopening on 14 August with the potential for an earlier opening date of 29 July if works progress smoothly.
  
• Video recording (356 views)

Community Services and Licensing Committee – 4th June

• Taxi Fares 2026: Approved an average 5.7% increase to taxi fares. A majority of consulted taxi licence holders supported the rise due to increased fuel and living costs, likely to take effect from 13th July 2026.
• Public Spaces Protection Orders – alcohol consumption: Supported a proposal to extend two existing PSPOs restricting alcohol consumption in Stroud and Dursley town centres for a further 3 years. The extension, supported by the police, aims to continue providing early intervention powers against alcohol-related anti-social behaviour. A statutory consultation is now being undertaken until 2 August to inform the final decision (see consultation press release)
• Crisis & Resilience Fund: This fund was previously known as the Household Support Fund and is the UK Government's response to cost-of-living pressures for communities. The fund now has more focus on longer-term prevention of crisis, financial resilience and community coordination and less focus on short-term crisis response. The SDC allocation is £227,430 and committee approved the proposed distribution of the Fund allocation through community partnerships (including community hubs), focusing on long-term financial resilience rather than short-term crisis aid. Community transport pilots also discussed. To note: GCC has a £5.7m allocation from this national fund which was considered in March 2026 (report). Gloucestershire residents can now apply online here for emergency financial support.
• Member Reports
  • Museum in the Park achieved record visitor numbers and advanced its National Lottery Heritage Fund bid to reimagine the facility. Key updates include a new migration display, systems upgrades, and recruitment to replace the retired Volunteer Coordinator.
  • Police and Crime Panel. Webcam and minutes available from GCC.
• Video recording (42 views)

Housing Committee – 9th June

• Public questions: Concern about pedestrian safety on South Street, Uley, relating to the Swedish Timber housing application.
• Swedish Timber Houses – Uley: In March 2024 a decision was made by the Housing Committee to add three Swedish Timber sites in Uley, Stinchcombe and Wotton to the New Homes and Regeneration programme and progress redevelopment for the provision of new council homes, subject to planning permission. This further report addressed the highway safety and infrastructure concerns raised by Uley Parish Council and local residents. Surveys have now been conducted including three road safety audits confirming safe access and a drainage strategy reducing surface water discharge by 40%, pending formal planning submission. The Uley scheme is anticipated to deliver 18 carefully designed affordable homes, providing a mix of dwelling types tailored to meet identified housing need through rent and shared ownership tenures. All homes will achieve an EPC rating of A, with solar panels, Air Source Heat Pumps and EV charging points. The Committee resolved unanimously to approve the proposed redevelopment proposals for The Knoll, Uley.
• Funding for 16 new homes to support the homeless and Afghan Resettlement: Following an application in December 2025, SDC has been allocated a further £2.6m towards the purchase of 16 properties in the District from the Local Authority Housing Fund. SDC will commit the remaining costs to meet the total budget of £5.2m. There will be eight properties for the resettlement of people on the Afghan Resettlement Programme and eight for temporary accommodation for homeless people in the district, and the properties will form a permanent addition to the council housing stock.
  
• Warm Homes funding: SDC has applied for additional grant funding from the Government's Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund, to deliver fabric insulation works for an additional 50 council homes, on top of the 507 homes which are already due to be improved through this funding in 2026/27. SDC will match fund the grant with an additional £402k. It is expected that all social rented homes will be required to meet EPC-C standards by 2030 and this extra funding will help SDC to meet these new requirements. SDC has already achieved an average of EPC-C across the whole of the council housing stock.
• Tenant voice and tenant satisfaction: Committee agreed to new proposals for selecting and recommending tenant representatives to join the Housing Committee and noted the new tenant engagement arrangements to provide a stronger tenant voice through a Tenant Oversight Panel. Committee also reviewed tenant satisfaction measures which have been shared with the Regulator of Social Housing.
  
• Member / officer reports: Were shared on the Housing Oversight Board, the Decent Homes Standard and compliance with Regulatory Consumer Standards for social housing.
  
• Video recording (85 views)

Extraordinary Council – 10th June

• Local Government Reorganisation – Structural Changes Order for Gloucestershire: SDC reviewed and commented on the proposed joint response with six other Gloucestershire councils about the Structural Changes Order, a legal requirement to implement local government reorganisation, in relation to the three unitary council proposals under consideration. In terms of naming of the future unitary councils, it was agreed that if a single unitary council is selected, it should be called Gloucestershire Council. If the two unitary council option is chosen, the councils should be called East Gloucestershire and West Gloucestershire (which would include Stroud District). If the Gloucester doughnut / Greater Gloucester option is selected, the two councils should be called 'Greater Gloucester' and Gloucestershire Council. Proposed shadow authority structures were also agreed. The councils have now submitted their representations to the Secretary of State who is expected to make a decision on 17 July. Shadow unitary authorities are expected to be elected in May 2027 and to take over responsibilities from the District Councils and County Council in April 2028.
• Video recording (82 views)

Environment Committee – 11th June

• Public footpath diversion order Standish EST 43: Committee agreed that a long-stalled 2005 order to divert a small section of public footpath in Standish should be abandoned. There had previously been objections to the proposed diversion and there has since been a change in land ownership. The existing footpath remains in place and is unaffected. GCC's Public Rights of Way team requested the change and can pursue a fresh diversion order if required.
• Extending Public Spaces Protection Orders – dog fouling and control: Committee supported the proposal for dog control rules for Stroud District to be extended for a further three years, and subject to public consultation. These rules require removal of dog poo and obeying lead directives across Stroud district and apply to all public land. Requirements about excluding dogs are limited to signed play areas and sports facilities. Keeping dogs on leads applies only to specific designated zones like cemeteries and canal towpaths. A statutory consultation is now being undertaken until 2 August to inform the final decision (see consultation press release)
• Member Reports
  • Walking and Cycling Fund: Infrastructure projects in the Stroud district. Since December 2025, three projects totalling approximately £47k have been completed, including Stroud Town Centre waymarking and the Pederson Way feasibility study. Four additional projects remain underway, such as bike rack installations. The Wotton-Charfield Greenway design phase, originally projected spend of £75,000 is now expected to come under budget to less than £40,000, with a design phase target completion date of March 2027. The project is managed by GCC, with design work by Walk, Wheel and Cycle Trust. April 2026 saw the Pederson Way (originally known as Cam, Dursley and Uley Greenway) opening event. Most projects are managed or match-funded by GCC and local councils.
  • Gloucestershire Resource and Waste Partnership: This year's work focused on building momentum toward Local Government Reform through a cross-party senior officer group that advanced circular economy principles (reuse over recycling) and established new litter enforcement approaches, including an innovative university collaboration app to track fly-tipping and shift responsibility back to polluters.
• Video recording (22 views)

Strategy and Resources Committee – 18th June

• Council's Communications Strategy: Committee approved the new strategy which sees SDC adopting more planned, campaign-led approaches, and using email newsletters as another way to engage with residents directly, while maintaining non-digital access points for inclusivity. The action plan also embraces digital marketing techniques.
• Canalside Land, Stonehouse Community Asset Transfer: Committee agreed that after many years of joint working with the community, the SDC-owned land in Stonehouse known as the Former Ship Inn site, or Canalside site on the A419, should be transferred to Stonehouse Town Council for a nominal sum. There was a good turnout from the community to hear this item. The business case from SpICE (Ship Inn Community Enterprise), a Stonehouse Town Council Working Group, will see the site used by the community. Currently it is open on the first Sunday of the month with family friendly activities, and will be part of the Stonehouse Canal Festival on Sunday 5 July. See press release: Community vision for Stonehouse Canalside moves forward
• Economic Development – revised delivery framework: Committee agreed to a revised framework for the final two years of SDC's work until a new unitary council is in place. This reflects the council's recently approved Climate and Nature Strategy, Culture Strategy, and implementation of its Community Wealth Building Action Plan, and emphasises the role of the creative and green economies in the economic health of the district. The new framework sets out the five themes, with funding allocated to support this work within the financial outturn report. The priorities are: 1. Green & Inclusive Economy, 2. People & Skills, 3. Investment & Enterprise, 4. Sustainable Tourism & Market Towns, 5. Planning & Infrastructure. For each priority there is a strategic area of work and numerous opportunities identified.
• Council Plan Review: Agreed that committee workshops will be held in the autumn to prioritise items in the Council Plan to meet budget savings targets for the council's five-year Medium Term Financial Plan. This reflects lower than expected funding from Government to SDC.
• Regeneration and Investment Board:
  • Brimscombe Port: Seeking a new developer after previous withdrawal. The aim is to launch the new procurement process in July 2026. Soft market testing has demonstrated positive interest. Progress includes appointment of a procurement consultant, establishment of a Project Board including community representation, redrafting the Development Agreement, Biodiversity Net Gain surveys and site clearance works.
    
  • Stroud Station Quarter: A proposal for new homes on the site is progressing in partnership with key stakeholders including Network Rail, GWR and government departments. It is still in the de-risking phase; the proposal for a station lift has not secured funding from the Access for All fund, but feasibility funding has been secured. This project is also noted as an amber risk; committee approval to be sought later in 2026 for collaboration and delivery arrangements, subject to viability outcomes. Public questions earlier in the meeting raised concerns about the potential loss of Cheapside parking if the project goes ahead.
    
  • Both the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) programmes closed on 31 March 2026; there is no successor funding available for Gloucestershire.
  • Market Towns Vitality Fund is fully allocated and has now closed. Most projects are expected to complete this month. The underspend has been distributed to towns for additional initiatives alongside a district-wide marketing project.
  • Town of Culture. Stroud's application submitted. Shortlisted bids will receive development funding.
  • Stroud Town Centre Regeneration. Governance alignment needed between two existing groups with different focus to reduce duplication.
  • LGR procurement implications: as tighter contract scrutiny and potential restrictions during the vesting period are expected, careful planning will be required to ensure continuity of projects.
• Canal Update: Crossing of the canal under the M5 now commencing after all necessary permits from the EA and National Highways have been secured along with completed planning conditions. The project involves multiple contractor appointments across groundworks, piling, and design phases. Ongoing negotiations with Ecotricity for a temporary footpath and an agreed long-term lease agreement for operations and maintenance under the motorway. Key project risks: ensuring successful delivery of the M5 Crossing project in line with the agreed licences, permission, engineering programme, budget, design and quality.
• Sale of a private residential property, Dursley: Agreed that the council will pursue an enforced sale of a private property in Dursley to minimise the council's ongoing costs and to approve in principle the write-off of the council's costs which are above the market value of the property. A partial collapse of the gable end wall at the property some years ago led the council to exercise its general duty to take enforcement action to safeguard the occupant of the property and members of the public / neighbours and to put in place a scaffold rig to support the wall and prevent further collapse.
• Video recording (83 views)

Other News

• Stroud District Council secures £225,000 funding to support refurbishment of homes for veterans
• Councillors unanimously approve funding to progress Stratford Park Lido reopening. Progress report.
• Meningitis Now named as Stroud District Council's new Charity of the Year
• Summer holiday passport for leisure and activity access (£37 for six weeks) – Active Lifestyles bookings open soon
• Enjoy outdoor theatre across Stroud district this summer
• Play Strategy Consultation open until 10 August. Please take part and promote – particularly to young people.
• Consultation until 2 August on important powers to help curb street drinking and control dogs

Prepared by Cllr. Gareth Kitchen (Green) and Cllr Catherine Braun (Green) based on councillor activity in June with updates from Cllr. Linda Cohen (Lib Dem). #sdc

Along with residents' casework and in addition to council and training meetings at Ebley Mill, Cllrs Kitchen, Braun & Cohen attended the regular council meetings at North Nibley, Stinchcombe & Wotton-under-Edge.

Council meetings 

Link to meeting agenda and documents in the committee title.

Annual Meeting – 21st May

The annual meeting appoints councillors to leadership, committee and other roles for the civic year ahead, and was set against the backdrop of Local Government Reorganisation, given the likely elections to a shadow unitary council in May next year.

• Leadership roles: There has been no change, with Green Party Councillors continuing to lead the council and policy committees: Cllr Chloe Turner continues as Council Leader, Cllr Catherine Braun as Deputy Leader.
  
• Committee Appointments: There has been no change in the appointment of Chairs and Vice-Chairs, though there are few changes in relation to membership of the six committees; Strategy & Resources, Audit & Standards; Community Services & Licensing; Development Control; Environment; and Housing.
• Other Appointments 22 external organisations requiring Council representation, ranging from Berkeley Nuclear Stakeholders to Woodchester Mansion Trust. Two cross-party groups; Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, Equity & Belonging and Member Development. Four champion roles: Armed Forces, Health and Wellbeing, Migrant, and Litter and Clean Environment.
• Minor updates to the Council's Constitution were approved. It was also agreed to disband the regular Constitution Working Group, given the impending Local Government Reorganisation and the limited remaining lifespan of the Council in its current form.
• Appointment of Independent Persons and Parish/Town Council representatives for the Standards Sub-Committee, which is required as part of the Council's statutory duty to promote and maintain high standards of conduct by its elected and co-opted members. Melvin Kenyon has been appointed as Independent Person for a further two years and the Council will advertise the extra two Independent Person vacancies. Steve Tilley has been appointed for a further period of two years as a Parish and Town Council Representative and the additional two vacancies will be advertised through Parish and Town Clerks and Gloucestershire Association of Local Councils (GALC).
• Video recording (67 views)

New Council Homes

• Eight new affordable rent homes in Wotton-under-Edge have been officially handed over to Stroud District Council, supporting efforts to meet the district’s pressing need for high-quality, energy-efficient housing.
• Thirteen new social rented homes completed in Dursley.
• and another thirteen new affordable homes in Cam.

Other news 

• Work starts on a new Local Plan for Stroud District. It is a mandatory Government requirement and marks the beginning of a new plan‑making process, reflecting significant changes in national planning policy.
• Celebrating 50 Years of Wildlife Science in the Stroud district. Art, nature and connection at Tinkley Gate; Inspiring the next generation at Stroud Show & Outdoor photography exhibition at Museum in the Park.
• Stroud District Council funds 50 more bike stands to support walking and cycling across the district
• New Tree Management Policy adopted to protect and grow Stroud district’s treescape.
• A special Armed Forces Day celebration is being planned at Stratford Park in Stroud this summer, organised by local veterans with the support of Stroud District Council.
• Stratford Park Lido, Stroud – updates are being shared fortnightly on the work underway in consultation with community representatives to explore sustainable long term options for the Lido, including potential asset transfer, alternative ownership models and future repair and maintenance. An additional Committee meeting has been called for 3 June to review the revised cost of reopening the Lido this year and next and to seek approval for additional revenue funding to deliver the required works. https://www.stroud.gov.uk/culture-leisure-sports-parks/lido/

Prepared by Cllr Gareth Kitchen (Green) based on councillor activity in May with updates from Cllr Linda Cohen (Lib Dem) & Cllr Catherine Braun (Green). #sdc

Along with residents' casework and in addition to council and training meetings at Ebley Mill, Cllrs Kitchen, Braun & Cohen attended the regular council meetings at North Nibley, Stinchcombe & Wotton-under-Edge.

Council meetings 

Link to meeting agenda and documents in the committee title.

Strategy & Resources Committee – 16th April

• Stratford Park Lido in Stroud – Capital Investment Options. The lido first opened in 1937 and is now an ageing facility in need of repair, and due to its condition needs to remain closed to allow further investigations to be completed. Work to reopen the lido depends on addressing a number of safety-critical issues identified through specialist surveys. At the Committee meeting, an amendment to the recommendation was agreed, which commits the council to develop a costed schedule and timetable identifying the minimum essential works required to bring the lido back into safe use as soon as possible, and a similar schedule for a more comprehensive plan for the refurbishment of the lido for the medium and longer term. Subject to the survey results (expected June 2026) being satisfactory, and to any costed plans being within budget (£900k capital investment works and/or £200k revenue repair works) the repairs could commence immediately. There is further info about the lido, including FAQs and fortnightly updates on the Council's website https://www.stroud.gov.uk/culture-leisure-sports-parks/lido/

• Active Lifestyles Stroud – Leisure centre in Stratford Park – Agreed to add £650,000 to the Capital Programme to fund the gym equipment replacement and refurbishment works to ensure resources are targeted to meet community needs. This is much needed investment to replace ageing equipment and to refresh the facilities following the council taking back management of the centre over a year ago.

• Community Infrastructure Levy – The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a planning charge, introduced in 2008. It provides a fair and transparent means for ensuring that development contributes to the cost of the infrastructure it will ultimately rely on, such as schools, social infrastructure, flood risk mitigation works, transport, and roads. Previously, SDC could only make formal CIL funding allocations over one financial year. The revised guidance extends this to three years, giving partner organisations greater financial certainty and more time to plan and deliver community infrastructure projects. This year any bids for CIL funding must be sent to SDC by 10 September.

• Corporate Enforcement Policy – The Counter Fraud and Enforcement Unit (CFEU) has prepared this new policy which sets out the legal framework and principles the Council will follow when undertaking investigations for a wide range of breaches and offences. It demonstrates the Council’s consideration of necessity, proportionality and public interest when deciding on enforcement action.

• Local Government Reorganisation Joint Scrutiny Proposals – A new joint scrutiny group will be set up across all Gloucestershire councils, to ensure accountability for, and understanding of, the Gloucestershire Local Government Reorganisation Programme. This new scrutiny group will be in place until the 'shadow' unitary authority/ies are elected, which is currently expected in May 2027.

• Leadership Gloucestershire – covered Police Reform White Paper, Local Growth Plan, Gloucestershire Housing Commission, skills and training, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities provision, and a new 'anti-hate statement' to used by Gloucestershire organisations in public facing communications to demonstrate that hate and discrimination will not be tolerated in the county.

• City Region Board – covered the Together Gloucestershire project which aims to create a platform for private and public sector organisations to source ethical and reliable suppliers in Gloucestershire; challenges facing the retail and hospitality sectors; a Spatial Development Strategy for the county (which would sit above the local plans); Gloucestershire Business Rates Pool and Strategic Economic Development Fund.

• Canal Project – updates on governance, M5 crossing project, community engagement, and the recent visit by the National Lottery Heritage Fund Board of Trustees in March which included filling Oldbury Pound with water – the first section of the 'missing mile' of the canal to be reconstructed since part of it was filled in by M5 construction from the late 1960s.

• Video recording (626 views)

Environment Committee – 23rd April

• Tree Management Policy – A new SDC policy where trees are recognised as vital natural assets that enrich biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience, shape local landscape character and enhance community wellbeing. The policy has eight objectives: maintaining public safety through proportionate tree risk management; delivering cost‑effective, environmentally positive tree care; ensuring high professional standards in arboricultural work; improving public information and engagement; protecting biodiversity with a focus on notable, ancient and veteran trees; increasing canopy cover through appropriate planting and climate‑resilient species; supporting climate change adaptation and mitigation; and ensuring fair distribution of tree benefits across all neighbourhoods.

• Biodiversity and Monitoring Duty Report – SDC's progress from July 2023 to January 2026, highlighting achievements in habitat restoration, community engagement, and statutory Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) implementation. Eight approved gain plans delivering 75% on-site biodiversity gains. There are continued commitments to 2031, including expanded land management across 30 sites, strengthened governance integration, and ongoing landscape-scale recovery projects with partners like the National Trust and Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust.

• Climate Leadership Gloucestershire (CLG) – This group (CLG link) brings together all the councils in Gloucestershire along with health and other partners. In the context of local government reorganisation, it is recommended that the group's work should continue and potentially expand to include broader community engagement. Current waste actions were reviewed, which are: Reducing non-recyclable waste; Encouraging circular economy network; De-carbonise waste fleet; Reduce food waste; New depot provision (Shared Tewkesbury and Cheltenham site). The group added a new action on the Javelin Park Incinerator and its future operation. The Secretariat produced a climate policy planning document for sharing with councils.

• Stroud Valleys Natural Flood Management Steering Group – Inspected a new intervention at Syde, near Miserden, where a 400m straightened channel was restored to its natural floodplain state using leaky woody dams and scrapes to slow water flow and improve wetland connectivity. The project successfully reduced downstream flood risk and created 0.52ha of improved habitat, the visit highlighted a need for better public education regarding the temporary visual impact of restoration works and suggested acquiring water monitoring equipment to track nutrient levels.

• Update reports – from the Lower Severn Independent Drainage Board and Gloucestershire Resources and Waste Partnership. 

• Video recording (36 views)

Council – 30th April

• Leisure services – Council received questions about the lido and confirmed the recommendation above for investment in renewing the gym at the Active Lifestyles Stroud. Cllr Kitchen asked for information relating to investment relating to active lifestyles work in relation to the Wotton ward. Cllr Braun highlighted the council's Healthy Lifestyles Scheme which supports people to be more active in a safe way to benefit both their physical and mental health, delivered across the district in partnership with health professionals and instructors.

• New Local Plan – Council approved the commencement of a new Local Plan, which is a Government requirement. This will mean publication of the statutory Notice of Commencement by 30 June 2026 and a 'Gateway 1' self‑assessment by 31 October 2026. The Government's new system introduces a 30‑month end‑to‑end process to produce a local plan, supported by three Gateway stages. This is intended to accelerate plan adoption and achieve universal coverage of up‑to‑date Local Plans across England. There is a significant cost associated with this new Local Plan process (approx £2.5 million) but numerous advantages, including: strong plan‑led control over development; responding to higher housing needs; addressing key infrastructure constraints; demonstrating a five‑year housing land supply, and avoiding the risks of speculative development. The final guidance on this new local plan process has not yet been published and is expected this summer.

• To note: Stroud district’s minimum local housing need will rise to at least 820 dwellings per annum, a significant 33% increase over the 620 dwellings per annum used for the submitted 2021 draft Local Plan. At the same time, the draft Local Plan is still under examination, with the Planning Inspectors currently consulting with the local councils and National Highways about the M5 Junction 12 and 14 corridors. This examination and any final report will stretch well into 2026 and overlap with the new Local Plan preparation.

• Gloucestershire council reorganisation Council noted the SDC formal responses to two recent consultations:

  • Government Consultation on Local Government reorganisation in Gloucestershire; SDC is strongly in favour of a single unitary authority
  • Joint response to Government Consultation on Areas for producing Spatial Development Strategies states that Gloucestershire’s devolution journey should lead to membership of the West of England Combined Authority, and that Gloucestershire should form a single foundation strategic authority as a pre-cursor to joining the West of England Combined Authority.

• Committee meeting format and deadline for public questions Council approved changes to its constitution:

  • At the Development Control Committee, for public speaking and parish presentations to take place before the Planning Officer’s introduction, so technical issues raised during public participation can be better addressed.
  • To give a longer deadline for the submission of public questions – so that questions can be submitted up to 3 clear working days ahead of the meeting (previously 4 clear working days).

• Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging Annual Report – Approved the annual report and action plan and the formal addition of the socio-economic duty to the Council's policy to better address financial inequality. This follows successful progress on accessibility and engagement initiatives last year. It was agreed that neurodiversity would also be considered in future.

• Ubico business plan – Ubico is the council-owned company which delivers environmental services (including bin collection) across Gloucestershire and West Oxfordshire. The business plan notes the company's expansion into Wiltshire, and and the launch of a new five-year roadmap focused on operational efficiency, fleet decarbonisation, and preparation for Local Government Reorganisation. The plan prioritises growth while enhancing safety, digital transformation, and community partnerships across Gloucestershire.

• Canal project – Agreement that the Chief Executive, in consultation with group leaders, and subject to appropriate risk assessment, could enter into the Heads of Terms for a lease with National Highways to operation of a new section of the Stroudwater Canal beneath the M5 Motorway.

• Video recording (203 views)

Other news 

• School Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme – Cllr Cohen is working with SDC to put in place local HAF provision for the summer which will be in Wotton and Kingswood.
• Climate and Nature briefing – a new 50 minute film, the People's Emergency Briefing, which sets out the key information everyone needs to know about the climate and nature emergency (particularly councillors), is being screened at venues across our local area. It's a compelling watch and well worth attending one of the viewings: Wotton Cinema (9 May – tickets £6), Sawyer Hall Nailsworth (1 June), The Armstrong in Thornbury (4 June), the Chantry Centre in Dursley (7 June) and the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester (25 June). Further details and information can be found on this map along with options to host further screenings at community venues.
• Westridge Woods – Cllr Braun continues to engage with relevant officers and residents about the forestry management works in the woods and has discussed with the SDC Tree Officer that it would be useful for parishes to be notified in future about any felling license consultations from the Forestry Commission.
• Recycle more at home: we’re now collecting toothpaste tubes and brown (but not black) plastic plant pots https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/recycle-more-at-home-we-re-now-collecting-toothpaste-tubes-and-plastic-plant-pots/
• New council homes First six of sixteen new affordable homes in Kingswood bought by Stroud District Council https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/first-six-new-affordable-homes-bought-by-stroud-district-council/
• New £5 bulky waste collections for eligible residents https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/new-5-bulky-waste-collections-for-eligible-residents-1/
• Community climate and nature grants – new round now open https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/new-round-of-community-climate-and-nature-grants-now-open/
• Renters Rights Stroud District Council prepares residents for major changes under the Renters Rights Act https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/stroud-district-council-prepares-residents-for-major-changes-under-the-renters-rights-act/
• Music in the Park - returns to Stratford Park this May https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/music-in-the-park-returns-to-stratford-park-this-may/
• No Mow May Residents encouraged to take part https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/leave-what-you-can-residents-encouraged-to-take-part-in-no-mow-may/

Prepared by Cllr Gareth Kitchen (Green) & Cllr Catherine Braun (Green) based on councillor activity in April with updates from Cllr Linda Cohen (Lib Dem). #sdc

Along with residents' casework and in addition to council and training meetings at Ebley Mill, Cllrs Kitchen, Braun & Cohen attended the regular council meetings at North Nibley, Stinchcombe & Wotton-under-Edge.

Council meetings 

Link to meeting agenda and documents in the committee title.

Development Control Committee – 10th March 2026

• Former rabbit farm at Stancombe, Bisley with Lypiatt Parish. S.25/1691/FUL
  • Application to erect a replacement building with two live/work units. Conversion of the original building had been approved in 2015, but the original building was partially demolished and then collapsed in a storm. Officers recommended refusal on the grounds that this would be a new building, in the open countryside, rather than conversion of an existing building.
    • Permitted
• Enforcement case – Land adjacent to PROW MMH41 Amberley N23/0377
  • Two yurt structures on this site in the Cotswold Natural Landscape in open countryside, used for a family home. Members considered the expediency of taking action against unauthorised development. It was agreed to defer serving the enforcement notice until the outcome of a planning appeal against a prior application refusal is known.
    • Deferred
  • Land off School Lane, Whitminster, S.25/0970/REM
    • Withdrawn
• Video recording (96 views)

Housing Committee – 17th March 2026

• New Downsizing Policy for council tenants: A new downsizing incentive scheme will support tenants seeking to downsize from family-sized council homes (2 bedrooms and above) to smaller accommodation that better meet their household's need. The aim is to make more effective use of council houses to meet the demand on the housing register, reduce long term reliance on temporary accommodation for homeless families. Tenants can apply to move under this initiative and will be entitled to receive a grant of between £1,500 to £2,500, with the grant amount depending on how many fewer bedrooms there are in their new property.
• New Mutual Exchange Policy for council homes: SDC is keen to promote mutual exchange as a way of encouraging and promoting tenant mobility. This policy provides a framework which enables tenants to move, with the consent of SDC, without going through the standard housing allocation process and to ensure households can move to properties that better meet their needs.
• New Vulnerability and Inclusive Services Policy: The new policy sets out the steps and measures that SDC will take to identify, support, and protect vulnerable tenants and residents throughout their interactions with SDC as their landlord. This relates to people who may be considered vulnerable due to their personal, economic, or social circumstances.
• Counter Fraud & Enforcement Unit (CFEU) report: The Council is committed to an effective counter fraud and anti-corruption culture, by promoting high ethical standards and encouraging the prevention and detection of fraudulent activities. Housing and tenancy fraud remains one of the top four areas of fraud and abuse within the public sector. In 2024/25, two properties were recovered, one had been abandoned and one tenant was served with a notice to quit. From April-December 2025, two further properties were recovered, one had been sublet and one was deemed to be ineligible for succession and the housing application was withdrawn. The total loss avoidance over these periods was £168k. The CFEU is to review the housing waiting list, including verification of applications within Emergency Band, Gold Band and Silver Band. There are approximately 16,000 active household applications on the register for Gloucestershire of which 3,080 relate to Stroud DC.
• New Homes & Regeneration Programme:
  • Four sites are under construction.
    
    • In Wotton, Gloucester Street/Bradley Street (8 units) – completion now anticipated in April 2026
    • Cambridge Avenue, Dursley (13 units)
    • Glebelands, Cam (23 units)
    • Queens Drive, Cashes Green, Stroud (7 units)
  • Swedish homes
    • The Avenue, Stinchcombe (16 units) – planning submission anticipated April 2026
    • Mount Pleasant, Wotton (8 units) – awaiting planning determination
    • The Knoll, Uley (18 units) – drainage and highways issues being addressed
  • Section 106 acquisitions:
    • 33 new homes have been approved to buy new homes from developers including 16 in Kingswood and 13 in Dursley.
      
• Depooling of rent and service charges: From April 2025 rent and service charges were separated, which led to an increase in overall service charges, though these are eligible for universal credit and housing benefit, so tenants in receipt of those benefits did not experience any personal increase in costs. Some complaints and adjustments. Arrears have increased, difficult to attribute to depooling or cost of living more generally.
• The Tenant Support Fund: This is a discretionary £200k fund with £105k awarded in grants from April-December 2025. The fund has been used for different purposes, including to clear debts, to purchase goods and to support training for tenants seeking employment.
  
• Independent Living scheme action plan: These are a group of unfurnished, self-contained homes specifically designed for older people (55+) and include Dryleaze in Wotton. The aim is to provide independent, secure accommodation with the optional addition of social facilities and functions. A new action plan supports the Independent Living Strategy and will involve improving recycling areas by adding clear signage to minimise cross-contamination of waste.
• Empty Council Homes: There are currently 98 empty homes of which 36 are ready to let, the remainder are in line for or having some degree of refurbishment.
• Video recording (30 views)

Community Services & Licensing Committee – 19th March 2026

• Stratford Park Lido Lots of public interest in this agenda item and the recommendation for SDC to temporarily close the Lido for the 2026 summer season due to the extensive repairs and refurbishment that is needed. It is estimated that up to £5m would be needed to undertake the refurbishment works on the Lido. The committee approved the recommendation and a proposed reallocation of the £900k budget for Lido capital works. The Council is committed to work collaboratively to enable community-led fundraising to secure the additional funding needed to cover the cost of repairs. These recommendations will next be considered by Strategy & Resources Committee (on 16 April) and Council (on 30 April). Since the meeting, the council is reviewing the evidence about the Lido condition to reconsider the possibility of opening it this year. A new, independent, health and safety assessment will be undertaken, as well as a new full condition survey of the site.  A risk assessment has since been shared and an action plan for community engagement will be published. People can sign up on the council website to be part of the fundraising campaign here.
• Leisure Capital Investment Options Appraisal: In addition to the Lido repairs, two other items were considered for Stratford Park leisure. It was agreed to commit £650k to fund gym equipment replacement and refurbishment works at the Active Lifestyles Stroud leisure centre, following community consultation. It was also agreed to continue to maintain Stratford Park within existing budgets.
• Member / officer reports were shared on the Museum in the Park, the Police & Crime Panel, Citizens Advice, Health and Wellbeing Champion updates.
• Video recording (605 views)

Audit & Standards Committee – 24th March 2026

• External Audit Plan – Agreed with external auditors Bishop Fleming.
• Treasury Management Activity – Quarter 3 report accepted.
  
• Strategic Risk Register – members discussed high scoring risks and requested updates for the next meeting.
• Corporate Complaints Performance Data (link) – Quarter 3 report noted. The complaints volume remains steady across the year. The majority of complaints relate to council housing. Not an official URL but you can check out the data (at least for now) here. https://flo.uri.sh/story/3110069/embed?auto=1#slide-0
• Video recording (43 views)

Other news 

• Stratford Park Lido Statement from Cllr Chloe Turner, Council Leader, following the CS&L Committee meeting (above). https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/statement-from-council-leader-on-stratford-park-lido/
• Canal Project Water flows into the first section of the canal's missing mile that was filled by the M5 construction in the late 1960s. https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/water-flows-in-to-first-section-of-canal-s-missing-mile/
• Garden waste service extended Every household in the Stroud district can now use the council’s expanded garden waste collection service including remote and rural areas that were previously unreachable. https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/garden-waste-service-expands-to-reach-every-household-in-the-stroud-district/
• Prosecution for breach of environmental law A Stroud‑based company has been fined more than £4,000 after admitting to illegally emitting dark smoke from an industrial site in Sharpness. https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/stroud-business-fined-for-emitting-illegal-black-smoke/
• Scam warning Residents urged to stay alert after a local person recently lost more than £3,000 in a Direct Debit scam. https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/council-urges-residents-to-be-alert-to-direct-debit-refund-scam/
• Easter Holiday family activities and events across the district – not only for children! https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/easter-holiday-family-activities-and-events-across-the-stroud-district/

Prepared by Cllr Gareth Kitchen (Green) & Cllr Catherine Braun (Green) based on councillor activity in March with updates from Cllr Linda Cohen (Lib Dem). #sdc

Along with residents' casework and in addition to council and training meetings at Ebley Mill, Cllrs Kitchen, Braun & Cohen attended the regular council meetings at North Nibley, Stinchcombe & Wotton-under-Edge.

Council meetings 

Link to meeting agenda and documents in the committee title.

Development Control Committee – 10th March 2026

• Former rabbit farm at Stancombe, Bisley with Lypiatt Parish. S.25/1691/FUL
  • Application to erect a replacement building with two live/work units. Conversion of the original building had been approved in 2015, but the original building was partially demolished and then collapsed in a storm. Officers recommended refusal on the grounds that this would be a new building, in the open countryside, rather than conversion of an existing building.
    • Permitted
• Enforcement case – Land adjacent to PROW MMH41 Amberley N23/0377
  • Two yurt structures on this site in the Cotswold Natural Landscape in open countryside, used for a family home. Members considered the expediency of taking action against unauthorised development. It was agreed to defer serving the enforcement notice until the outcome of a planning appeal against a prior application refusal is known.
    • Deferred
  • Land off School Lane, Whitminster, S.25/0970/REM
    • Withdrawn
• Video recording (96 views)

Housing Committee – 17th March 2026

• New Downsizing Policy for council tenants: A new downsizing incentive scheme will support tenants seeking to downsize from family-sized council homes (2 bedrooms and above) to smaller accommodation that better meet their household's need. The aim is to make more effective use of council houses to meet the demand on the housing register, reduce long term reliance on temporary accommodation for homeless families. Tenants can apply to move under this initiative and will be entitled to receive a grant of between £1,500 to £2,500, with the grant amount depending on how many fewer bedrooms there are in their new property.
• New Mutual Exchange Policy for council homes: SDC is keen to promote mutual exchange as a way of encouraging and promoting tenant mobility. This policy provides a framework which enables tenants to move, with the consent of SDC, without going through the standard housing allocation process and to ensure households can move to properties that better meet their needs.
• New Vulnerability and Inclusive Services Policy: The new policy sets out the steps and measures that SDC will take to identify, support, and protect vulnerable tenants and residents throughout their interactions with SDC as their landlord. This relates to people who may be considered vulnerable due to their personal, economic, or social circumstances.
• Counter Fraud & Enforcement Unit (CFEU) report: The Council is committed to an effective counter fraud and anti-corruption culture, by promoting high ethical standards and encouraging the prevention and detection of fraudulent activities. Housing and tenancy fraud remains one of the top four areas of fraud and abuse within the public sector. In 2024/25, two properties were recovered, one had been abandoned and one tenant was served with a notice to quit. From April-December 2025, two further properties were recovered, one had been sublet and one was deemed to be ineligible for succession and the housing application was withdrawn. The total loss avoidance over these periods was £168k. The CFEU is to review the housing waiting list, including verification of applications within Emergency Band, Gold Band and Silver Band. There are approximately 16,000 active household applications on the register for Gloucestershire of which 3,080 relate to Stroud DC.
• New Homes & Regeneration Programme:
  • Four sites are under construction.
    
    • In Wotton, Gloucester Street/Bradley Street (8 units) – completion now anticipated in April 2026
    • Cambridge Avenue, Dursley (13 units)
    • Glebelands, Cam (23 units)
    • Queens Drive, Cashes Green, Stroud (7 units)
  • Swedish homes
    • The Avenue, Stinchcombe (16 units) – planning submission anticipated April 2026
    • Mount Pleasant, Wotton (8 units) – awaiting planning determination
    • The Knoll, Uley (18 units) – drainage and highways issues being addressed
  • Section 106 acquisitions:
    • 33 new homes have been approved to buy new homes from developers including 16 in Kingswood and 13 in Dursley.
      
• Depooling of rent and service charges: From April 2025 rent and service charges were separated, which led to an increase in overall service charges, though these are eligible for universal credit and housing benefit, so tenants in receipt of those benefits did not experience any personal increase in costs. Some complaints and adjustments. Arrears have increased, difficult to attribute to depooling or cost of living more generally.
• The Tenant Support Fund: This is a discretionary £200k fund with £105k awarded in grants from April-December 2025. The fund has been used for different purposes, including to clear debts, to purchase goods and to support training for tenants seeking employment.
  
• Independent Living scheme action plan: These are a group of unfurnished, self-contained homes specifically designed for older people (55+) and include Dryleaze in Wotton. The aim is to provide independent, secure accommodation with the optional addition of social facilities and functions. A new action plan supports the Independent Living Strategy and will involve improving recycling areas by adding clear signage to minimise cross-contamination of waste.
• Empty Council Homes: There are currently 98 empty homes of which 36 are ready to let, the remainder are in line for or having some degree of refurbishment.
• Video recording (30 views)

Community Services & Licensing Committee – 19th March 2026

• Stratford Park Lido Lots of public interest in this agenda item and the recommendation for SDC to temporarily close the Lido for the 2026 summer season due to the extensive repairs and refurbishment that is needed. It is estimated that up to £5m would be needed to undertake the refurbishment works on the Lido. The committee approved the recommendation and a proposed reallocation of the £900k budget for Lido capital works. The Council is committed to work collaboratively to enable community-led fundraising to secure the additional funding needed to cover the cost of repairs. These recommendations will next be considered by Strategy & Resources Committee (on 16 April) and Council (on 30 April). Since the meeting, the council is reviewing the evidence about the Lido condition to reconsider the possibility of opening it this year. A new, independent, health and safety assessment will be undertaken, as well as a new full condition survey of the site.  A risk assessment has since been shared and an action plan for community engagement will be published. People can sign up on the council website to be part of the fundraising campaign here.
• Leisure Capital Investment Options Appraisal: In addition to the Lido repairs, two other items were considered for Stratford Park leisure. It was agreed to commit £650k to fund gym equipment replacement and refurbishment works at the Active Lifestyles Stroud leisure centre, following community consultation. It was also agreed to continue to maintain Stratford Park within existing budgets.
• Member / officer reports were shared on the Museum in the Park, the Police & Crime Panel, Citizens Advice, Health and Wellbeing Champion updates.
• Video recording (605 views)

Audit & Standards Committee – 24th March 2026

• External Audit Plan – Agreed with external auditors Bishop Fleming.
• Treasury Management Activity – Quarter 3 report accepted.
  
• Strategic Risk Register – members discussed high scoring risks and requested updates for the next meeting.
• Corporate Complaints Performance Data (link) – Quarter 3 report noted. The complaints volume remains steady across the year. The majority of complaints relate to council housing. Not an official URL but you can check out the data (at least for now) here. https://flo.uri.sh/story/3110069/embed?auto=1#slide-0
• Video recording (43 views)

Other news 

• Stratford Park Lido Statement from Cllr Chloe Turner, Council Leader, following the CS&L Committee meeting (above). https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/statement-from-council-leader-on-stratford-park-lido/
• Canal Project Water flows into the first section of the canal's missing mile that was filled by the M5 construction in the late 1960s. https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/water-flows-in-to-first-section-of-canal-s-missing-mile/
• Garden waste service extended Every household in the Stroud district can now use the council’s expanded garden waste collection service including remote and rural areas that were previously unreachable. https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/garden-waste-service-expands-to-reach-every-household-in-the-stroud-district/
• Prosecution for breach of environmental law A Stroud‑based company has been fined more than £4,000 after admitting to illegally emitting dark smoke from an industrial site in Sharpness. https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/stroud-business-fined-for-emitting-illegal-black-smoke/
• Scam warning Residents urged to stay alert after a local person recently lost more than £3,000 in a Direct Debit scam. https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/council-urges-residents-to-be-alert-to-direct-debit-refund-scam/
• Easter Holiday family activities and events across the district – not only for children! https://www.stroud.gov.uk/news/easter-holiday-family-activities-and-events-across-the-stroud-district/

Prepared by Cllr Gareth Kitchen (Green) & Cllr Catherine Braun (Green) based on councillor activity in March with updates from Cllr Linda Cohen (Lib Dem). #sdc

Summary

The Green-led administration at Stroud District Council has passed an “investment budget” for Stroud District, balancing the challenge of cuts in government funding with an ambitious programme that puts over £4.6million in council priorities and new measures across the district.

Detail

The Green-led administration at Stroud District Council last night (Thursday February 19) passed an “investment budget” for Stroud District, balancing the challenge of cuts in government funding with an ambitious programme that puts over £4.6million in council priorities and new measures across the district.

The budget was proposed in the context of last-minute changes to the financial settlement, which will significantly reduce Government funding to district councils like Stroud from April 2027 onwards, along with reductions in funding from business rates, which are also decided nationally.

Councillors noted that it was impossible to confidently plan for the future when the Government changed its mind on council funding just days before five-year budgets were finalised.

Alongside the budget, the council approved the updated Council Plan, a revised blueprint for council priorities and objectives.

The plan outlines the Council’s commitment to supporting communities, addressing inequalities, protecting and enhancing the environment, strengthening the local economy, and improving affordable and social housing provision. The Council Plan and budget priorities also emphasise the importance of strong local partnerships and the need to prepare for forthcoming local government reorganisation.

Commenting, Cllr Chloe Turner (Green, Minchinhampton) said: “This is a budget that considers the needs and ambitions of our whole district. On top of the valued local services that the council already provides, this budget will see positive and targeted investments into our communities. This includes: grant funding for cultural activities and small projects, investment in the wonderful Museum in the Park, and continued support for our work on tourism and the local economy, to bring in spending to the district’s businesses. This year, we’ve also stepped up our investment in social and affordable homes, supporting community-level walking and cycling projects, and through our new and ambitious climate and nature strategy, we’ll be adapting to the changing climate, which studies show will affect communities right across our district.”

Cllr Turner noted: “Some council services will see significant new spending, for example, on our work to meet the Government’s latest planning rules with a new local plan, but not all new areas of spend come with a big price tag. By working in partnership and providing match-funding contributions, we can unlock additional investment and contribute towards positive change in our communities, as we have done with the Stroudfunding scheme to help local fundraising projects.”

Commenting, Stroud District Council Deputy Leader Catherine Braun (Green, Wotton-Under-Edge) said: “Fairness is at the heart of our budget, and we are committed to making sure that residents’ cost-of-living concerns are addressed with support available to anyone who needs it. We have reaffirmed our commitment to the Council Tax Support Scheme, which currently helps more than 5,000 low-income households in Stroud district by reducing their council tax bill by up to 100%.”

Cllr Braun added: “For the year ahead, we’ve committed £1.3million to community services, health and wellbeing and community safety initiatives, as we know how important these services are for residents. This includes support to the community hubs, and the district’s front-line community officers, who are out and about daily, assisting parishes, the police and local organisations to resolve local concerns. We will also be continuing our commitment to youth services, so that the voices of young people are also heard in council decision-making.”

As part of the budget setting, the council also agreed its ‘Housing Revenue Account’, which will see the council continuing to invest in its large and growing council housing stock. The budget confirmed a 4.8% increase in social and affordable rents in line with national guidance, supporting an average weekly rent of £111.62. This is alongside a five-year capital programme that prioritises major works, heating and electrical upgrades, damp and mould remediation, fire and water safety, and a new asset management IT system.

The housing budget also backs vital service enhancements to meet new regulatory standards, including Awaab’s Law and strengthened consumer regulations, while progressing regeneration and new homes schemes in Nupend – near Stonehouse – and Dursley and additional funding of £5million per year to investment in acquisitions.

Commenting, the Chair of the Housing Committee, Cllr Gary Luff (Green, Painswick), said: “We are really proud of the District’s social housing, and I am delighted that the council has committed to investing a further £9.9million in new council homes for next year. Nationally, Stroud District is in the top 30 council house builders in the country, building more council homes than Manchester. Over the next year, we’ll also be continuing the programme to modernise our independent living schemes for older people. Our Tenant Support Fund remains available to help those who are struggling to cope with housing cost increases, and we will be putting additional funding to support the homeless, given the increasing challenges that people face finding somewhere affordable to live.”

More info

• The full council budget, plan and papers from the council meeting can be found here: https://stroud.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=143&MId=1570
• New investment by Stroud District Council to support the updated Council Plan is set out in the Council budget papers – at item 6e, appendix C. https://stroud.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=143&MId=1570&Ver=4
• Stroudfunding scheme projects: https://www.spacehive.com/movement/stroud/projects
• To apply for Council Tax support: https://www.stroud.gov.uk/benefits/council-tax-support

#sdc

Along with residents' casework and in addition to council and training meetings at Ebley Mill, Cllrs Kitchen, Braun & Cohen attended the regular council meetings at North Nibley, Stinchcombe & Wotton-under-Edge.

Council meetings 

Link to meeting agenda and documents in the committee title.

Strategy & Resources Committee – 15th Jan 2026

• Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) – this is a planning charge, introduced in 2017 for Stroud district, to help deliver infrastructure to support the development of the area, related to housing growth, such as roads, schools, and green spaces. It's not designed to meet all the district's infrastructure needs. The CIL fund is split into two funding pots. A Strategic Infrastructure Fund (administered by SDC) and a Neighbourhood proportion fund (administered by the parishes). Since 2017, the ‘Strategic Infrastructure’ fund has received £4.3m. In this year's allocation, four projects were approved for funding:
  • Stroud College – Construction Centre Expansion £60,154
  • GCC Education – Feasibility study for Slimbridge Primary School expansion £60,000
  • GCC Libraries – improved digital centre £29,700
  • Stroud Station Quarter redevelopment feasibility study £94,800
• The Fair Pay and Senior Pay Policy Statement – approved. This statement notes that the ratio between the highest and lowest employees (including apprentices) at Stroud District Council is approx 1:7. There are currently 568 staff employed by SDC, which includes the two leisure centres in Dursley and Stroud.
• Budget Monitoring of General Fund Revenue budget, Housing Revenue Account & Capital Programme.
• City Region Board report
  • Approved the Local Growth Plan as Gloucestershire’s overarching economic strategy, and outlined progress on the new Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) mandated by the Planning and Infrastructure Bill.
  • Gloucestershire Business Rates Pool indicated that the forthcoming 2026 business‑rates “reset” will likely eliminate the pool’s financial benefit, casting doubt on its continuation; consequently future contributions are uncertain. Several Strategic Economic Development Fund bid proposals were approved in an exempt session.
• Leadership Gloucestershire report
  • Noted education and skills challenges in Gloucestershire. This covers financial deficits in higher education, digital‑cyber security skill shortages, and a need for coordinated, cross‑sector initiatives (education, industry, public services) to reduce NEET rates (people Not in Education, Employment or Training). Also noted progress with the Gloucestershire Housing Commission, Local Government Reorganisation (Government consultation on options expected soon), the Strategic Migration Partnership, and an update on the abolition of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
• Video recording

Audit & Standards Committee – 20th Jan 2026

• Planning Enforcement Update – The backlog stands at 181 cases for the team of 4.8 full time staff. Councillors are keen to see this reduced. Service improvements: Formal enforcement actions have risen, professional training is underway for officers, and proactive monitoring of the build out of developments is being piloted to boost early intervention and public confidence.
• An updated Risk and Opportunity Management Framework was approved.
• Treasury Management and Investment Strategies and limits approved.
• We noted the Statement of Accounts 2024/25. This is a fantastic document that clearly lays out all of the Council's activities.
  
• Noted the external auditors reports and checked internal audit activity, including a recent audit of Council Tax and Business Rates Collection, which received a very positive rating.
• Video recording

Development Control Committee – 27th Jan 2026

• S.25/1414/FUL 15 Waterdale Close, Hardwicke. Change of use from C3 to C2 (Care home) for one person with complex needs – APPROVED The Parish Council strongly objected to commercial property in residential area. There were many complaints around intensification of use and parking which it was advised could be accommodated by conditions. Lengthy inquisitive debate, finally approved: 8:2 two abstentions.
• S.25/1855/FUL Wild Goose Lodge, Shepherds Patch, Slimbridge Change of use of youth hostel (Sui Generis) to SEND school F1(a) – APPROVED Ward councillor and Parish Council raise numerous concerns, in particular transport. Approved subject to conditions: 10:0 two abstentions.
• S106 monitoring report. Section 106 agreements are legal agreements between a planning authority and a developer, or undertakings offered unilaterally by a developer, that ensure that certain extra works related to a development are undertaken. The report shows where these contributions have been used across the district: https://stroud.moderngov.co.uk/documents/s17860/S106%20Report%20-%20Appendix%20A.pdf)
• Video recording

Licensing Sub-Committee – 28th Jan 2026

• Premises licence for Chalfest Music Festival to be held in July 2026, July 2027 and July 2028 at France Lynch Pleasure Ground, Chalford Hill, Stroud. - GRANTED subject to conditions.
  • Well supported and well managed local event. Comprehensive Event Management Plan
• Video recording

Strategy & Resources Committee – 29th Jan 2026

• Council Tax support scheme to continue, offering up to 100% support for eligible claimants.
• Capital Strategy reviewed and approved.
• Housing Revenue budget recommended for approval. Social and affordable rents would increase by 4.8% along with other increases.
• General Fund Budget – recommended Medium Term Financial Plan for approval, and to increase Council Tax by 2.99% to £250.35 band D. All budget decisions must be agreed by the full council.
• Brimscombe Port redevelopment – The council has de‑risked the site over recent years (£2.4m spent) and is preparing to procure a new developer, with to be appointed in February/March. A Project Board will be formed, with meanwhile‑use community activities planned, pending health‑and‑safety and feasibility assessments.
• Regeneration & Investment Board. The Stroud Station Quarter project is progressing, as noted above a CIL grant for feasibility work has been approved, and this study will progress, even though the Government has not allowed Stroud Station's bid for a lift / step free access to go forward to the 'access for all' funding programme.
• Canal Project – Cotswold Canals Connected Phase 1B – An increased grant of £15.42m (original £8.96m plus £6.46m) enables construction of the Missing Mile project and the Stroudwater Canal reconnection, pending several permits (EA flood‑risk, National Highways easement, planning discharge, land‑access licence). Key upcoming milestones: lift bridge commissioning by end‑Jan 2026, public consultation events (2 Feb–14 Feb).
• Video recording

Other news 

• New – [Stroud District Council's Culture Grants](https://www.stroud.gov.uk/culture-leisure-sports-parks/culture/culture-grants-2026/)** are now open – offering up to £2,000 for arts and culture projects in the district. Applications are welcomed from early career artists, students, arts, culture and community organisations, and charities based in Stroud district. Deadlines run throughout 2026: 2 March, 1 June, 25 September
• Westridge Woods Forestry Management works. A community group has formed to monitor the felling works. A site visit with the Forestry Commission is planned for February. Please let Catherine Braun know if you'd like to take part.
  
• Planning appeals:
  • Land north of Taits Hill Road, Stinchcombe – a planning appeal has been lodged following refusal of planning permission by SDC. The appeal will be dealt with at a Public Inquiry, with dates scheduled for April and May.
    
  • Upper Rushmire Farm, Old London Road, Wotton – appeal against refusal to grant planning permission was allowed, with planning permission granted for rebuild of outbuilding, conversion of barn and adjoining outbuilding to a residential annex and erection of a bat barn.
    
  • Bassett Court, North Nibley – Appeal following refusal of planning permission for a change of use of agricultural buildings to one dwelling. To be decided on basis of written representations.
  • Land At Park Lane (B4060) Stancombe – Appeal following the refusal of planning permission – to be decided on the basis of written representations
• Survey on Stratford Park Stroud and Active Lifestyles Stroud – open until 13 February – Survey
• SDC and Hartbury University held a farm workshop on 23 January in Stroud, to support the farming community to build resilience, boost profitability and protect the environment (link)
• Clean Air Night (22 January) – tips to reduce smoke and improve air quality (link)
• Garden waste collection service. Bookings now open
• Postal voters: time to check if you need to reapply
• Stroud District Council wins top RSPCA PawPrints Awards for outstanding animal welfare
• Museum in the Park opens playful new show exploring inventive automata

Prepared by Cllr Gareth Kitchen (Green) based on councillor activity in January with updates from Cllr Linda Cohen (Lib Dem) & Cllr Catherine Braun (Green). #sdc

Along with residents' casework and in addition to council and training meetings at Ebley Mill, Cllrs Kitchen, Braun & Cohen attended the regular council meetings at North Nibley, Stinchcombe & Wotton-under-Edge.

Council meetings 

Link to meeting agenda and documents in the committee title.

Development Control Committee – 2nd December

• Solar photovoltaic farm at Epney, Framilode (S.25/1011/FUL) – REFUSED
  • Committee followed the planning officer recommendation to refuse the application. There was considerable local opposition due to the proposed location in flood zone and visual impact. Noted insufficient biodiversity‑net‑gain and habitat‑regulation assessments for protected sites, lack of consideration of construction traffic and inadequate mitigation for public rights‑of‑way users.
• Symn Lane Car Park, Wotton – Variation of approved plans (S.23/2101/VAR) – PERMITTED
  • Committee followed the planning officer recommendation to grant permission. This will change the previously approved plans and removing 12 of the parking bays that had been planned adjacent to the access road. It will also require landscaping, improvement of the car park layout, provision of disabled parking and ancillary works.
• Demolition of outbuilding and two story extension, Sheepscombe, Stroud (S.25/1431/HHOLD) – PERMITTED
  • Committee followed the recommendation to permit and also consented to the Listed Building application.
• Video recording

Environment Committee – 4th December

• Approved the new Climate and Nature Strategy for Stroud district.
  
  • Allows the council to increase our emphasis on restoring nature and adapting our district to the impacts of a changing climate (heat, floods, drought, storms), as well as continuing to focus on reducing carbon emissions from the council's direct operations and the goods and services purchased, capital works and pensions.
    
• Litter Code of Practice
  • Reducing litter is a key priority for the council. Currently there is a national 'Voluntary Code of Practice for Food on the Go' that was agreed over 20 years ago and is outdated and ineffective at addressing the scale of modern litter pollution. Agreed that the Council will seek national support for this voluntary code to be made mandatory. Noted that businesses have a vested interest in keeping their premises and surrounding area free and clear of litter to attract custom and achieve financial stability. However, there is little incentive for them to contribute to community cleanliness beyond their boundaries and no requirement for them to comply with the current voluntary code.
• Member – Officer Reports
  • Strategic Planning Advisory Board
    • Noted that the recent correspondence between the Council and the planning inspectors about the draft Local Plan, in relation to new National Highways evidence, that changed the requirements for junctions 12 and 14 of the M5 motorway. The Council has requested a dedicated hearing to consider this new evidence and reaffirmed it will not withdraw the draft Local Plan if such a hearing is denied. Instead the Council will request that the Inspectors issue a final report explaining why they consider the Plan unsound. This report would provide Development Management with an assessment of all draft sites, identifying any potential issues or confirming their suitability for development.
      
  • Climate Leadership Gloucestershire
    • New Climate & Risk Vulnerability Assessment for Gloucestershire. Some gaps such as the risk of sea‑level‑rise were noted. This assessment will help to inform the council's assessment for Stroud district. An update on the county-side Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP) had identified five priority actions (community energy, up‑skilling, data & mapping, energy stakeholder engagement, and deployment of renewables) for implementation.
  • Cotswold National Landscape Board
    • Presentation of the international nature target of 30% of land for nature by 2030, and the 40% target for the Cotswolds, stressing urgent habitat restoration and the need for quantifiable land‑use ambitions for sectors across the Cotswolds.
    • Called for stronger links between the Landscape Board’s work and the district’s Local Plan, plus greater funding for large‑scale projects like the Cotswold Landscape Initiative.
    • Cotswold Voluntary Wardens – currently 373 active wardens. Core activities are Work Parties, Parish Wardening, Walk Leading and Outdoor Learning.
  • Stroud Valleys Project Board
    • Discussed restructuring core posts to add a Project Development Manager, aiming to secure core funding and expand project delivery capacity.
    • Highlighted recent community‑driven achievements: sensory garden award, river‑guardian work, volunteer‑led habitat restoration, and upcoming volunteer‑run litter‑pick events.
  • Gloucestershire Resource & Waste Partnership
    • Summarised findings about hidden holiday‑let costs falling on councils due to business rates/council tax misclassification.
    • Govt regulatory changes for household collection of plastic bags and wrappings expected within a couple of years. Until then people can drop off plastics at supermarkets.
    • Updated on national waste‑policy changes (including producer responsibility and deposit return scheme) and their financial impact on councils, emphasising the need for coordinated lobbying and funding strategies and greater coordination in the county ahead of Local Govt Reorganisation.
  • Litter Champion Update
    • Update on 15 areas of work, including launch of a network of Litter Champion Hubs, partnering with supermarkets, fast‑food chains, schools, and community groups to install bins, run education events, and organise litter‑pick days
    • Introduced AI‑driven hot spot mapping, new anti‑litter messages on parking tickets, and expanded “Litter‑Pickers for Little Pickers” program with 45 schools signed up and over 7000 children set to benefit.
  • Lower Severn Independent Drainage Board
    • Reported upgrades to two pump sites (Lapperfield, Marshfield) due by March 2026 and a new office hub, while recruiting apprentices to sustain expertise
    • Raised concerns about rising flood‑risk impacts and the Environment Agency’s commitment to only maintain river‑defences to their current level, prompting a risk‑register upgrade
  • Walking and Cycling Annual Report
    • Committed £217k of walking‑and‑cycling projects, including feasibility studies for new cycleways (Cam-Dursley-Uley and Wotton-Kingswood-Charfield), Stroud town‑centre way‑marking, Access Bike sessions to support young people, projects in Standish, Frampton, Minchinhampton and Berkeley and the community e‑bike hire scheme.
  • Stroud Valleys Natural Flood Management Scheme Update
    • Work started in 2014, and there are now 1,234 Natural Flood Management interventions (leaky dams, flood‑plain re-connections, tree planting) covering 40% of the catchment, delivering 40km of improved watercourses and 41ha. of habitat which has been improved or created.
      
    • Highlighted partnership with the Wilder Frome group, ongoing monitoring with the Environment Agency, and secured £110k annual funding through regional flood‑risk grants
  • Climate and Nature Grant Update
    • Awarded £50k to 33 community projects targeting climate adaptation, behaviour change, and nature recovery; 23 were NGOs, 9 parish/town councils, 1 school
    • Projects included sensory gardens, swift nest boxes, rain‑garden installations, and repair‑café workshops, with interim reporting showing high applicant satisfaction
  • Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Progress Report
    • Since BNG became mandatory for all planning applications (Feb 2024), 119 applications were submitted: 35 granted, 44 pending, 40 withdrawn/refused; 9 granted sites have discharged the pre‑commencement BNG condition
    • Discharged BNG sites have collectively added 18.76 habitat units (93% on‑site), with three habitat‑bank sites (Frocester, Orchard House Farm, Elmore Court) under final legal agreements.
• Video recording

Housing Committee – 9th December

• Approved a further grant application to Government for funding to support temporary accommodation for homeless households and for people on the Afghan Resettlement Programme. The grant would be matched from the Housing Revenue Account (for council housing only) totalling £1.3m.
• Noted that SDC has been allocated £60k to assist with developing a bid for the new national 10 year Social & Affordable Homes Programme worth £39 billion that launches in 2026.
• Adopted the Resident Engagement & Communications Strategy which has been co-produced with tenants and leaseholders.
• Adopted the HRA Asset Management Strategy SDC's long-term approach to managing, maintaining, and investing in our housing stock to ensure it remains safe, sustainable, and fit for purpose
• Member – Officer Reports
  • Housing Oversight Board
    • The Board highlighted progress on stock‑condition surveys (up to 50% completed) but noted the target of 90% is still unmet, prompting a procurement push for external surveys
    • Key safety metrics were strong (gas safety and fire‑risk assessments 100%), yet concerns were raised over rising rent‑arrears, high void‑turn‑around times and a low call‑answer rate, leading to agreed actions on data‑clean‑up, performance dashboards and service‑improvement plans.
  • Private‑Sector Housing Team Officer Report
    • The team support tenants living in the private rented housing. Their workload is dominated by processing Disabled Facilities Grants and handling Anti-Social Behaviour/nuisance complaints in the private‑rented sector; staffing shortages (2.4 vacancies) are limiting capacity.
    • Upcoming challenges include the new Renters’ Rights Act (phased from May 2026) which will increase enforcement duties and most likely complaints, prompting a request for a dedicated enforcement officer and additional funding from Govt to cope with the expanded duties.
  • Domestic Energy Efficiency Update – Warm & Well scheme
    • The Warm and Well scheme is managed by Severn Wye Energy Agency (SWEA) on behalf of the seven local authorities in South Gloucestershire and Gloucestershire and working with the NHS, charities and other partners. The scheme gives energy efficiency advice and support to householders and administers grants to help address fuel poverty. In Stroud district, the scheme delivered 21 energy‑saving home improvements during Q1 and Q2, though the number of installations lagged behind the previous year due to Government rollout delays.
    • Client engagement surged with a notable rise in residents reporting health conditions and continued high fuel‑poverty levels.
    • (For homeowners keen to invest in their own home energy efficiency measures, the Furbnow Gloucestershire scheme provides advice and end-to-end project management).
• Video recording

Community Services and Licensing Committee – 11th December

• Active Lifestyles Dursley – Gym Refresh
  • Refurbishment and enhancement including the replacement of outdated fitness equipment, installation of new studio cycling units, and essential facility improvements costing £110k approved.
    
• Officer of Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) Funding
  • Acceptance of grant funding from the OPCC for Stroud Community Safety Partnership for Sport for Safer Streets and Graffiti removal projects
• Member – Officer Reports
  • Gloucestershire Health and Overview Scrutiny Committee
    • South West Ambulance Service is ending its partnership with the fire service for emergency co‑response and will rely more on volunteer Community First Responders (CFRs) who can reach incidents faster, especially in rural areas, and that the change improves both effectiveness and cost‑efficiency.
    • Winter preparedness (NHS Gloucestershire) a review of the previous winter’s 'critical incident' highlighted several improvements: quicker ambulance response times, reduced 12‑hour trolley waits, a more holistic approach for patients with complex needs, increased discharge of patients back home, and better communication across services.
  • Police & Crime Panel
    • Highlighted ongoing efforts to curb anti‑social behaviour and serious violence—via the ASB case‑review programme, Hotspot Action Fund deployments, Safer Streets campaigns, and a strengthened neighbourhood policing guarantee. Also noted major upcoming governance shift that will replace the Police and Crime Commissioner model with local‑authority policing boards by 2028.
    • A technical overhaul is underway to replace legacy systems (WAN rollout, modern analytics, citizen portal, expanded ANPR) to reduce cyber risk, and although the OPCC has mostly met its cost‑saving targets, anticipating a larger budget gap by 2029/30.
  • Citizens Advice
    • From April – Nov 2025, over 2,500 clients were advised on over 10,400 issues in Stroud and Cotswold districts. Personal Independence remains by far the biggest benefits enquiry area
    • In terms of debt queries, the increase in queries about credit and store card debt which exceeded the number of council tax arrears and fuel debts issues.
  • Kingshill House, Dursley – Creative Centre
    • All courses and workshops fully booked and other events. Repair works and other House and grounds maintenance have been completed successfully.
  • Active Lifestyles Lido – Stratford Park
    • Report on a strong season in 2025 with challenges noted on financial sustainability due to high operational costs and aging infrastructure.
  • Video recording

Full Council – 18th December

• Independent Remuneration Panel – Members’ Allowances
  • Council agreed the independent panel's recommendations to increase basic allowance for district councillors by £358 per year by 2029/30, to add some Special Responsibility Allowances, and remove the restriction of attending just one full council meeting of each parish/town council per month.
• Updates to the Constitution
  • The Constitution is a live document which requires regular review and revision. These updates were viewed as a tidying up exercise
• Councillor dispensation
  • Council authorised the absence of Cllr Nigel Prenter (Rodborough ward) for more than 6 months due to medical treatment.
    
• Video recording

Licensing Sub-Committee – AM 19th December

• Studio 18, Hope Mills Business Centre, Brimscombe
  • Premises licence for sale of alcohol. The Council received five representations against the application. Three were from local residents, one was from a local business, and one was from the Parish Council. Granted subject to conditions. (Police; occupancy limits. Incident logs, Challenge 25, CCTV etc.)
• Video recording

Licensing Sub-Committee – PM 19th December

• Standish Gatehouse, Horsemarling Lane, Standish
  • Premises licence for sale of alcohol and films in a rural area, for a new café space named Standish Gatehouse. Application granted subject to hours restriction and number of films per year.
• Video recording

Licensing Sub-Committee – PM 22nd December

• Woodchester Valley Vineyard and Winery
  • To vary a premises licence to extend hours for sale of alcohol and opening and extend the licensed area. Objections about traffic and pedestrian safety as well as pushing the boundaries of permitted agricultural use. Variation granted with conditions.
• Video recording

Other news 

• £1.8 million investment at Nouncells Cross in Stroud, to upgrade 57 flats across two blocks, is underway.
• More than £600,000 invested in Stroud district’s rural communities, under the Rural England Prosperity Fund including equipment repair at Synwell Playing Fields.
• ‘Food on the go’ outlets urged to help more to tackle litter.
• Working together to tackle anti-social behaviour – Report It to Sort It.

Prepared by Cllr Gareth Kitchen (Green) based on councillor activity in December 2025 with updates from Cllr Linda Cohen (Lib Dem) & Cllr Catherine Braun (Green).

You are encouraged to share this report on whatever social media platform you choose. #sdc

Along with residents' casework and in addition to council and training meetings at Ebley Mill, Cllrs Kitchen, Braun & Cohen attended the regular council meetings at North Nibley, Stinchcombe & Wotton-under-Edge.

Council meetings 

Link to meeting agenda and documents in the committee title.

Housing Committee – 4th Nov

• Swedish Timber Houses Site, Stinchcombe. An update to the Committee on highway safety and other key infrastructure considerations for the new scheme, before a planning application is submitted for this site, which was added to the Council's New Homes Programme in March 2024. Seventeen new energy efficient affordable homes are proposed (1 bed, 2 bed and 3 bed), on the site of 2 pairs of semi-detached Swedish Timber properties with large gardens. The concerns expressed by Stinchcombe residents in relation to housing density, a preference to upgrade existing buildings and other issues were referenced in the Committee papers.
• Proposed redevelopment of 11 & 11A May Lane, Dursley. Committee agreed to the proposal to develop land to the rear of Prospect Place just off May Lane, and to approve the submission of a planning application for the site using compulsory purchase powers if required. The proposed layout comprises 17 affordable homes with associated parking, that would be built to achieve EPC A rating. The May Lane properties are owned by Stroud District Council and comprise a derelict building in very poor condition with structural problems, which is proposed to be demolished.
  
• Neighbourhoods & Communities Strategy – a new SDC strategy was adopted in response to the Regulator of Social Housing's new framework. Following consultation with tenants and members the strategy will focus on partnership across services/agencies, tenants' involvement in service delivery, improved visibility of work, and data-led targeted activity, including tackling littering and wellbeing initiatives.
• Updated Service Standards for council housing services have been published. Performance against these standards will be reported regularly for tenant scrutiny and to Housing Committee.
  
• New Homes & Regeneration Programme update – further acquisitions of new affordable homes have been made by SDC in Cam (13 homes), Kingswood (16 homes) and Horsley (1 property) which are all due for completion by end of March. Construction is in progress at the new build council homes sites at Gloucester Street/Bradley Street in Wotton, Glebelands in Cam and Cambridge Avenue in Dursley. Four new homes to provide temporary accommodation for homeless families have been acquired at Great Oldbury.
  
• Empty council homes – work is underway to improve the process and turnaround time taken to bring council properties up to a lettable condition when they are returned to let. Minor voids are now dealt with by the internal Property Care team, which has helped to bring down the turnaround time to 72 days in quarter 1. A contractor deals with large scale repairs and whole house refurbishment works.
  
• Damp and Mould – update on work to implement Awaab's Law, which puts more responsibility on social landlords to provide proactive, tenant focused services for safe and healthy homes.
  
• Video recording

Audit & Standards – 11th Nov

• Counter Fraud and Enforcement Unit
  • Duty of Local Authorities - councils have a responsibility to promote and develop high standards for countering fraud and corruption in their organisations. The Council's Fraud Risk Strategy has been reviewed to ensure it meets current requirements. In a recent case, the Counter Fraud & Enforcement unit prosecuted an individual who had failed to disclose his multiple jobs and received salaries and other benefits totalling approximately £236,000. He was sentenced to 3 years for fraud (see BBC report).
  • Multi Agency Approach to Fraud website: The Counter Fraud & Enforcement Unit has now launched a new website to provide support for victims of scams in Gloucestershire: https://cfeu.org.uk/glassjar/ This ‘Glass Jar’ webpage stands for Gloucestershire Against Scams Joint Agency Response, and it has been developed by the Multi-Agency Approach to Fraud group, which brings together key partners including Trading Standards, the Counter Fraud Team, Gloucestershire Constabulary’s Economic Crime Team, Victim Support, the NHS, local councils and other agencies. By pooling expertise and intelligence, this group aims to disrupt scams and provide coordinated support for victims. The new Glass Jar website features alerts on current fraud trends and scams, advice for individuals and businesses, reporting tools and contact details, educational resources and campaign materials.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy
  • To provide a framework for the use of AI that can be used by the Council to define associated controls and procedures that will ensure on-going compliance.
• Accounts and Audit - Committee approved the Statement of Accounts for 2024/25 and reviewed the External Auditors' report. The Internal Audit Activity Progress Report was also discussed.
  
• Annual Code of Conduct Report – over the previous year, the Monitoring Officer has received 14 Code of Conduct complaints related to the District, Town and Parish Councils. The outcome has been 'no breach' or 'informal resolution' in all cases, apart from five, which are 'ongoing'.
  
• Video recording

Strategy & Resources Committee – 13th Nov

• Brimscombe Port Redevelopment – Next Steps
  • Procurement – agreed that the Council will proceed to procure a new developer partner for the Brimscombe Port project, to regenerate the old port site, restore the canal basin and build up to 150 energy efficient homes. There has been a very positive response to the council's 'soft market testing' when developers were approached to ask whether in principle they would be interested in the opportunity to be involved in the project.
  • Engagement – a project board will now be set up to include community representation. Council officers are currently exploring possible 'meanwhile use' options for the site, given the site's numerous limitations.
    
  • Funding – £206k was allocated to fund costs to progress the project over the next four years, and it was agreed to continue to provide a grant fund to Stroud Valleys Canals Company of £67k per year.
    
• Procurement and contract management
  • The new Procurement Act came into effect in Feb 2025 and has been implemented across the council. The Council's new Social Value policy was recently approved to show how economic, social and environmental wellbeing of our rea is considered in procurement activity. In terms of local spend – SDC spent £15.7m of its £40.9m total spend on suppliers with a GL postcode in 2024/25.
    
• Community Wealth Building
  • The council is advancing Community Wealth Building across five pillars; procurement, employment, land & assets, finance, and ownership.
    
  • Work includes, a new Social Value procurement policy, support for local energy co‑ops and other projects, with oversight by a cross‑department Officer Working Group coordinated with the Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES).
  • A second community workshop was held on 26 Nov 2025 to continue development.
• Member / Officer report summaries
  • Regeneration and Investment Board
    • Stroud Station Quarter (progressing) updates expected in April 2026.
    • Tourism and market‑town initiative reviewed. Refreshed Tourism USP report due March 2026 and the allocation of remaining Market Town Vitality Fund resources (£55 k) toward equal grants to town councils, promotional films, and potential signage or shop‑front grants.
    • Several broader regional updates were noted: the final Local Growth Plan submission, advanced engineering/manufacturing studies, green‑skills development, secured canal lottery funding, and pending decisions on Great British Nuclear and other pipeline projects.
  • Canal Update
    • NHLF boosted the canal grant to £15.4 m plus £4 m from partners, enabling full project completion and reconnection at Saul Junction.
    • Key 2025 milestones: Fromebridge opening, Bonds Mill lift bridge installation, and community/heritage outreach events.
• Video recording

Full Council – 20th Nov

• Local Government Reorganisation in Gloucestershire
  • Stroud District Council formally supported the proposal to create a single unitary authority for the whole of Gloucestershire, joining the county and district councils into one body. Concern was expressed about the local government reorganisation process, removal of district level decision making, and the likely financial and service disadvantages for Stroud district residents if the East/West two unitary option was adopted.
    
  • The council considered three options: a single county‑wide authority, two regional unitary authorities (East & West), or a “Greater Gloucester” authority plus a separate unitary for the rest of the county.
  • After debate and a vote the single‑council option received the council’s resolution which was submitted to the government by the deadline. The next step will be a Government consultation on the option, then a decision by the Minister on which option will be taken forward, which is expected next summer.
    
  • Council leaders emphasised that the focus now shifts to working with partner councils to prepare for the upcoming changes and to keep Stroud residents at the centre of planning.
  • All the other six upper tier councils in Gloucestershire have also sent in their preferences: four voted for one unitary council for the county (Stroud DC, Tewkesbury BC, Cotswold DC and Gloucestershire CC), Cheltenham BC voted for the East/West two unitaries, Gloucester City Council voted for the 'Greater Gloucester' two unitaries, and the Forest of Dean voted for 'none of the above' to express their frustration with the process. (BBC report)
  • Further information on the proposals: https://futuregloucestershire.org.uk/
• Video recording

Other news 

• Leaders unite in call for community harmony. “We champion equality, diversity, inclusion and equity in all that we do.”
• The National Lottery Heritage Fund awards £6.4m to reconnect Stroud’s historic canal with the UK’s waterways.
• Disappointment at rejection of new evidence for the draft Local Plan by Planning Inspectors.
  
• Poppies to Paddington
• Local Government Reorganisation: Stroud District Council supports single council for Gloucestershire
• Help us build a safer district by sharing organisations supporting women and girls
• Brimscombe Port redevelopment moves forward with new developer search

Prepared by Cllr Catherine Braun (Green) and Cllr Gareth Kitchen (Green) based on councillor activity in November with updates from Cllr Linda Cohen (Lib Dem). #sdc