Leader's blog - w/c 8 June 2026

"Council services depend on skilled, committed people who care about the communities they serve. If that sounds like you, Stroud District Council is recruiting now across a wide range of roles, including elections, housing, health and safety, estates, leisure and the canals programme. We are also opening five Level 3 apprenticeship opportunities for September 2026. Please take a look at the role details on our website, come to the Apprentice Open Evenings on 17 or 24 June, or visit our next monthly jobs fair at Ebley Mill on 1 July.

There is more good news on housing this week. We have secured £225,000 from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust to refurbish six long-term vacant council homes for local veterans. Nearly ninety veterans are on our housing register, most needing one-bedroom homes. These six properties have been chosen with veterans’ needs in mind, and will be made comfortable, affordable and accessible for those with mobility needs. Supporting veterans, armed forces members and their families is a key priority for the Council.

In other news, councillors have unanimously backed further funding last week to progress the reopening of Stratford Park Lido. The decision was not taken lightly, because extra spending must be matched by savings elsewhere. But residents have been clear that the outdoor pool is treasured, and we must do all we can to reopen it safely this season, while working with the community and local stakeholders on its future.

Finally, our councillors meet this week to respond to Government’s latest questions on local government reorganisation, including possible names for any new councils, ahead of a ministerial decision expected in July. Whatever structure is chosen for Gloucestershire, Stroud’s position is clear: change must keep local voices heard, protect accountability and ensure services remain closely connected to the communities they serve."

Cllr Chloe Turner, Leader of Stroud District Council