New plans for a multi-million pound waterside development to be revealed

Stroud District Council’s latest plans for the multi-million pound redevelopment of Brimscombe Port will be revealed at a public consultation event.

Local residents are invited to give their views on the proposals prior to a planning application being submitted in the New Year for the necessary infrastructure including the canal basin and new access road and to establish the outline redevelopment proposals.

The project is particularly challenging as it involves engineering a new canal basin, river crossing, culverts and new roads.

Residents will have the chance to speak to the development’s engineer, architect, and council officers at the event between 3- 6.30pm on Thursday 13 December, in the West Suite of the listed Port Mill building in the centre of the port. The plans will also be available to be viewed during open times at The Ship Inn, Brimscombe until 20 December.

Cllr Doina Cornell, leader of Stroud District Council said:

“It’s important that the views of the local community are taken into consideration before the planning application is submitted. I hope that local residents will take this opportunity to speak directly to the people working on this exciting project.”

Brimscombe Port is a former inland port dating back to the 1780s which became redundant after the era of the canals as a mode of transport came to an end. It was filled in during the 1960s and developed as an industrial site, and was earmarked as in need of significant regeneration by Stroud District Council.

Due to the high infrastructure costs, the scheme requires public funding. The council was successful in securing £2m from Homes England in 2015 which kickstarted work to bring the development forward. This has now been match funded by Stroud District Council. Together, these contributions will enable the council to select a developer partner to create a unique waterside attraction.

Martin Whiteside, ward councillor for Thrupp said:

“This is an opportunity for local people to help shape a site that when completed could accommodate at least 150 homes, community facilities and business space. The development could deliver new jobs and opportunities for business start ups as well as 26 boat moorings.”

For people unable to attend the event a feedback form will be available at www.stroud.gov.uk/brimscombeportfeedback from the 13th December. Paper copies of the survey are available by phoning 01453 754432.