|
NEWS, INFORMATION AND EVENTS FROM STROUD DISTRICT COUNCIL
The Government has announced that it is "minded" to confirm a single unitary authority for Gloucestershire before Christmas.
In the event the decision is confirmed, elections to the new unitary authority would take place in May 2028, ahead of vesting* in April 2029.
*Vesting Day is the date when a new local authority officially comes into existence and assumes its legal powers and responsibilities. This is a key milestone in the process of local government reorganisation, marking the transition from the old structure to the new one.
|
Museum in the Park is celebrating a double success after being shortlisted for Best Museum in the Cotswolds 2026 and Best Free Attraction in the Cotswolds 2026 as it marks its 25th anniversary year.
The popular Stratford Park attraction is home to thousands of objects telling the story of the Stroud district, alongside changing exhibitions, an award-winning walled garden, café and shop. Entry is free. The nominations recognise the museum's role in making local history, heritage and culture accessible to everyone.
The museum joins a host of other shortlisted businesses and attractions from across the district, while Stroud artist Cleo Mussi has been nominated for Artist of the Year. Voting is open until 30 November.
|
If you're celebrating Hallowe'en, there are plenty of ways to reduce waste and be considerate of others.
Use pumpkin flesh for soups, roast the seeds for a tasty snack, and recycle your pumpkin afterwards in your food waste caddy or compost bin.
You can also support local farm shops and market traders by choosing a locally grown pumpkin.
We're also reminding residents to think about pets, neighbours and wildlife during fireworks season. Consider attending an organised display, respect "No Trick or Treat" signs, and help make Hallowe'en enjoyable for everyone 🎃🐾🎆
|
If you're looking for ways to keep the children entertained during the last weekend of half term, take a look at our guide. Many events are free or low cost, making it easy to enjoy a great half term without travelling far.
Families take a spooky stroll around Stratford Park, hear spooky songs and learn about folk magic at the Museum in the Park, make a splash at the Hallowe'en pool party at Active Lifestyles Stroud and more.
|
Work is getting underway on the new Local Plan, which will help shape where homes, jobs, services and infrastructure are located across the Stroud district in the years ahead.
The plan will guide future development and ensure it meets the needs of local communities while protecting what makes the district special.
At this stage, the new Local Plan is still in the very early stages of development. No decisions have been made about future development locations, site allocations or the overall strategy for future housing growth across the district.
The next formal public consultation is expected to take place in summer 2027, when residents, businesses and community groups will have an opportunity to comment on emerging options and proposals.
|
Three highlights from a busy and rewarding week!
🏃 Taking action: I ran and litter-picked the Stroud Half Marathon, covering 21km in 5 hours 30 minutes and collecting nearly 2,500 pieces of litter! All part of my month-long fundraising challenge for Run for Autism. Support my challenge here.
🌱 Inspiring change: I delivered a passionate presentation at the Climate and Nature Partnership meeting at Rednock School, sharing my vision for environmental education across Gloucestershire. This cause, which I've championed for over a decade, was a driving force behind my decision to stand as a councillor.
♻️ Shaping policy: I attended the Gloucestershire Resources and Waste Partnership Group, championing ambitious litter strategy recommendations for the proposed new unitary authority and helping shape the draft waste strategy.
|
Cllr Gill Thomas is SDC's Member Champion for Litter and Clean Environment.
Businesses, charities, community groups and education providers can apply for grants of up to £5,000 from Stroud District Council's Sustainable Economy Fund.
The fund supports projects that boost the local economy while delivering community and environmental benefits.
A wide range of projects may be eligible, including training and skills initiatives, business development, equipment purchases, digital innovation, accessibility improvements, environmental projects and tourism opportunities.
Round 1 applications close on 22 November 2026.
|
Volunteers are selling poppies in supermarkets around the Stroud district in support of the Royal British Legion's annual Poppy Appeal.
This year's appeal shines a light on families in the Armed Forces community, recognising the unique challenges and sacrifices they make.
There's information on our website for veterans, serving members of the armed forces and their families, including details of local social groups.
|
The Stroud & District Veterans Hub has moved to a new venue and is welcoming new members to join its monthly breakfasts.
Open to anyone who has served in the Armed Forces, the hub offers veterans the chance to meet others, share experiences and enjoy some camaraderie over breakfast.
The group meets on the first Saturday of every month at 9am at The Old Crown in Paganhill and welcomes veterans of all ages, backgrounds and services.
|
People living in Brimscombe and Thrupp, Chalford, Frampton on Severn, Great Oldbury, Minchinhampton, Standish and Upton St Leonards are being invited to have their say on proposed changes to parish council arrangements in their area.
We've published draft recommendations as part of a Community Governance Review. The review is looking at whether current parish council arrangements continue to reflect the communities they serve and whether changes may be needed, including parish boundaries, the number of councillors and parish wards.
The consultation is open until 11.59pm on Sunday 15 November 2026.
|
Looking for your next opportunity? Take a look at our current vacancies below - pay awards pending for all positions. Closing dates are listed for each job.
-
Safety, Health & Compliance Officer, £40,444 (30 October).
-
Evaluation Consultant (Cotswold Canals Connected) - invitation to tender (09 November)
-
Housing Contracts Admin Assistant, £29,542 (15 November)
-
Senior Asset Surveyor, £45,579 (15 November)
-
Museum Volunteer Co-ordinator (part time), £29,542 (16 November)
-
Housing Solutions Strategic Lead, £60,794 (29 November)
-
Casual Swimming Teacher, £25,219 - £26,847 pro rata. (30 November).
-
Rural Affordable Housing Project Officer for Gloucestershire Rural Community Council, part time, £30,000-£35,000. (27 November). Find out more here.
We've partnered with the Department for Work and Pensions to host monthly Jobs Fairs at our headquarters in Ebley Mill.
These events bring together a wide range of local employers, alongside employment support and practical advice, to help people explore job opportunities, training, and next steps into work.
Whether you’re looking for a new role, a career change, or guidance to get started, the Jobs Fairs offer a welcoming space to connect and learn.
Next Jobs Fair: Wednesday 25 November, 10:15am – 12:30pm
|
CONSULTATIONS
UPCOMING MEETINGS - read the agenda, submit a question, attend or watch online:
- Development Control Committee - 17 November
- Audit & Standards Committee - 24 November
- Strategy & Resources Committee - 26 November
- Environment Committee - 3 December
- Housing Committee - 8 December
- Community Services & Licensing Committee - 10 December
- Development Control Committee - 15 December
- Full Council - 17 December
RECENT MEETINGS - available to watch on our YouTube channel.
- Development Control Committee - 20 October
- Full Council - 15 October
- Audit & Standards Committee - 27 October
- Strategy & Resources - 8 October
- Environment Committee - 17 September
- Extraordinary Council, 10 June
- Housing Committee - 15 September
- Community Services & Licensing Committee - 10 September
📰 Know someone who likes to be in the know? Share the news and forward this email 📨
|
