SDC Leader's blog - w/c 14 July 2025
“We have a busy night ahead at Thursday’s Full Council. We’ll be looking at our renewed Social Value Policy – this is about how we buy in services as a council, and make sure the taxes our residents pay are spent in a way that generates extra benefits for our communities. Maximising our spend with local companies is one priority, because that way we do our bit to boost our local economy, and we also want to see our larger suppliers directly supporting our communities and demonstrating their commitment to climate and nature action.
You may have seen the launch of the ‘Future Gloucestershire’ survey, which seeks early input from county residents to help shape the model for one or two unitary councils (which the government has decided will replace the existing six district and county council structure). Do give your views at www.stroud.gov.uk/futureglos A formal consultation on all proposed options will come later, led by the government. We’ve also been asked to consider which mayoral authority we want to join - the evidence so far points towards the West of England Combined Authority as the best option, so if Council agrees, we will formalise that ambition on Thursday.
Have you heard about the Ship Inn Community Space on the canal? Run by a fantastic community group, the site next to the Upper Mills Bridge (accessed from the towpath) is hosting a series of "Sun Day" events in the coming weeks with the help of the Cotswold Canals Connected team. On Sunday 20th July, 2-6pm, The Door will visit – with a climbing wall, paddleboard experiences, refreshments and games for all ages, I’ll certainly be heading over with my teens.
In the meantime, take care in this heat. With our public green spaces so dry, no BBQs please, and please keep an eye out for vulnerable neighbours. Thank you.”
Cllr Chloe Turner, Leader of Stroud District Council