Leader's blog - w/c 20 July 2026

It was a relief to finally receive a Government decision last week in favour of a single unitary council for Gloucestershire, replacing the county and district councils from 2028. Given the alternatives, this is the best possible outcome. While significant work lies ahead, our priority is to ensure local communities continue to have a strong voice and that the services people rely on are protected throughout the transition.

Parish and Town Councils, the level of government closest to residents, will see no change to their status as a result of local government reorganisation. However, parishes can propose changes to their arrangements and boundaries through Community Governance Reviews. Seven parishes in Stroud district have asked to be included in the latest review, which was approved by Council last week. If you would like to comment on arrangements for Brimscombe and Thrupp, Chalford, Frampton-on-Severn, Great Oldbury, Minchinhampton, Standish or Upton St Leonards, please take part in the consultation.

We would also welcome your views on two important consultations that are closing soon. The Council’s Play Strategy, which looks at opportunities for children and young people to enjoy free play in their daily lives, closes on 10 August. The consultation on continuing Public Spaces Protection Orders, covering dog control across the district and restrictions on street drinking in Stroud and Dursley, closes on 2 August.

Finally, there is the early scoping consultation for the next Local Plan which closes on 8 August. This plan will guide future development, and the vital infrastructure that will need to be in place for residents. Last week I attended an excellent meeting with local partners about the Greenway Project linking Wotton-under-Edge to neighbouring Charfield in South Gloucestershire and it was very encouraging to see support for this active travel scheme to be included in plans for both council areas.

Cllr Catherine Braun, Deputy Leader of Stroud District Council