If it isn’t raining as you read this, it probably has been recently. The recent wet weather is a reminder of the pressure our changing climate places on local communities and infrastructure - and the importance of taking informed, evidence‑based decisions to strengthen our resilience.
At Thursday’s Environment Committee, members will be asked to approve a new climate and nature assessment tool designed to help do exactly that which forms a key part of the council’s Climate and Nature strategy. The tool will provide clear, accessible summary information about the likely impacts of any significant council decision on climate, nature and the wider environment. It will support both councillors and officers to make choices that protect the district’s long‑term environmental health.
Stroud District Council has already taken practical steps to build climate resilience. Over the past 12 years, the council has installed more than 1,200 natural flood management interventions across the Stroud Valleys. These features - from leaky dams to soil improvements and wetland creation - work quietly in the background during heavy rainfall, helping to slow water flow, reduce flood risk and create valuable habitats for wildlife. The programme continues to expand, increasing the resilience of rivers and streams across the district.
Finally, community groups, charities, voluntary organisations and residents with great ideas to improve their communities are invited to join the upcoming Spring 2026 round of Stroud Funding, the council’s civic crowdfunding programme. Two free online workshops will take place on Wednesday 4 March (12–1pm) and Thursday 5 March (6–7pm) to help project creators develop ideas and learn how to build a Spacehive crowdfunding page. More details on https://www.spacehive.com/movement/stroud