Stroud District Council purchased the historic Grade II* Listed Brunel Goods Shed from Network Rail in March this year and as planned has now sold the building to Stroud Valleys Artspace (SVA), securing its future as a vibrant cultural venue at the heart of Stroud.
The transfer marks a significant step in the regeneration of the Stroud Station Quarter - a key strategic site in the town centre. The council is working in partnership with Gloucestershire County Council, Stroud Town Council, Great Western Railway Network Rail and London and Continental Railways to deliver a shared vision for the area, which serves as a vital gateway to the town and a connection between the canal and the high street.
Securing the Goods Shed for SVA will enable restoration of the building, improved access, and expanded community activity. It will also act as a cultural cornerstone for the wider regeneration of the area.
Cllr Chloe Turner, Leader of Stroud District Council, said:
“This is a fantastic example of how we’re delivering on our Council Plan priorities - supporting key regeneration sites and enabling investment in infrastructure that benefits our communities.
The Goods Shed is a much-loved building, and we’re delighted to secure its future for arts, culture and community use.”
SVA has delivered an arts and community programme at the Goods Shed for over a decade, but its future was uncertain due to an expiring lease.
Jo Leahy, Joint Artistic Director of SVA, said:
“SVA has delivered an exciting arts and community programme at the Goods Shed for some 10 years but this was threatened by our lease expiring next year. SVA is grateful for the council’s support that has now secured this exciting venue for the future.”
David Elford, Trustee and Project Manager, added:
“Ownership will now allow SVA to seek further investment to make the Goods Shed fully accessible, improve energy efficiency and audience comfort whilst retaining the unique industrial heritage of the building.”
He also paid tribute to Stroud Preservation Trust for saving the building in the first place, and to the Railway Heritage Trust for their grant contribution.
The handover of the Goods Shed follows Network Rail’s recent refurbishment of the Grade II-listed footbridge and canopies at Stroud railway station – together, these represent the first key elements of investment in the area.
Background information
Photo: L-R Jo Leahy (SVA), Ali Fisk (SDC), Cllr Chloe Turner (SDC), Neil Walker (SVA), David Elford (SVA).
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