Residents and workers in Stroud, Gloucestershire, are being encouraged to share their views on how Stroud Town Council should allocate its resources over the coming five years. With local households currently paying some of the highest council tax rates in the district, the council is keen to ensure public funds are spent in ways that reflect community priorities.
On average, Stroud households pay £243.82 annually for town council services—slightly higher than the £243.08 band D charge from Stroud District Council for the 2025/26 financial year. Although smaller in scale than district or county councils, Stroud Town Council has made a significant impact locally by preserving key cultural venues like the Sub Rooms and Lansdown Hall, improving playgrounds, awarding community grants, and supporting grassroots organizations.
To gather input for its new five-year strategy, the council has included consultation details in its recent newsletter to all parish residents. Paper copies are available at the council offices on London Road, and online information is also accessible. Additionally, Stroud Town Council is promoting the consultation through social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, aiming to reach a broad audience.
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A series of public consultation events will be held, commencing with a strategy roadshow at the Town Meeting on May 21. Throughout June, council representatives will visit various community hubs such as parks and supermarket forecourts to engage residents directly. Dates and locations will be regularly updated on the council’s website.
Stroud Mayor Tony Davey highlighted the importance of community participation: “This is an opportunity for Stroud’s communities to help shape our future. We especially encourage voices from underrepresented groups and young people to contribute. Every perspective matters.”
Preliminary feedback has identified key focus areas for the council’s strategy:
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Enhancing the quality and accessibility of public spaces and parks while promoting Stroud town centre as a welcoming hub for businesses and cultural events.
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Supporting the sustainability and resilience of local community and volunteer groups, ensuring community assets are shaped by and benefit local residents.
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Tackling social exclusion, isolation, and inequality to ensure equitable access to services and opportunities for all parts of Stroud.
The consultation period will conclude in autumn, with the final strategy set for approval by councillors later this year and published on the council’s website.