Plans for a new canalside cafe in Stonehouse have taken an important step forward as Stroud District Council has agreed to enter lease negotiations with Stonehouse Town Council for the former Ship Inn site.
Originally considered for housing, the Ship Inn site has been reconsidered for community use since 2022. The latest proposal envisions a welcoming cafe housed in timber-clad shipping containers, complete with toilet facilities, enhancing the area’s amenities.
Councillors voted to approve the terms for a long-term lease transfer of the site at Wharfdale Way to the town council, negotiating a price below the market value of £200,000. This decision reflects the council’s commitment to fostering stronger communities and improving Stroud’s waterways.
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Councillor Martin Pearcy (Green, Coaley and Uley), who supported the motion, described the plan as a “good example” of local government responding to community needs. “The site’s transfer for community use has full support from Stonehouse residents and the town council,” he added. “It’s a great news story.”
Stonehouse ward councillor and town councillor Carol Kambites (Green) praised the project as a brilliant example of community collaboration. She shared that plans for the site have been submitted and could take up to eight weeks for approval.
“I’ve witnessed people actively preparing the site – moving stones to create hardstanding, building picnic tables, and even running barbecues to raise funds,” Kambites said. “There is a real commitment and enthusiasm behind this effort.”
Deputy council leader Catherine Braun (Green, Wotton-under-Edge), who proposed the lease transfer, highlighted the extensive work involved in developing the business case. She expressed gratitude to everyone contributing to the project.
“The benefits are substantial and align closely with the canal project, one of our flagship initiatives,” Braun said. “Opening this beautiful site to the canal will provide easier access for the people of Stonehouse and the surrounding area.”