STROUD District Council leader Steve Lydon keeps you up to date with council matters

Thursday, March 9 – Mock trial competition

I attended the mock trial competition for primary schools organised by Gloucestershire Magistrates. These mock trials used to take place at Stroud Magistrates’ Court but since 2012 they have been held at Ebley House, with rooms adapted to look like courts. It’s an initiative led by local magistrates that has been taken up in other parts of the country. It was a pleasure to see the Year 6 pupils taking on the roles of all those who attend court including defence and prosecution lawyers, defendants, witnesses, usher, magistrates and even as reporters. The children were judged on their presentation skills by real-life magistrates. An enjoyable and valuable experience.

Wednesday, March 15 - Gloucestershire Economic Joint Growth Committee meeting

This committee looks at what more can be done to support the economic vitality of the area. A new approach to skills is being launched in the shape of a county-wide employment and skills board. This new group will be business-led and will aim to raise the profile of skills, education and learning. I am particularly keen that they look at building on the excellent examples of business and education collaboration we have here in Stroud including the Stroud Ambitions event, Festomane and the Employability Charter.

Tuesday, March 21 – Development control committee

Items on the agenda include applications at Betworthy Farm in Coaley, Croft Farm in Upton St Leonards, and Trailend on Cowle Road in Stroud.

Thursday, March 24– the Future Local business event

If you’re a business owner then I’d urge you to sign up for the Future Local Businesses Event if you haven’t already. It’s a networking event which will provide the district’s businesses with a wealth of advice on a whole host of topics. Experts will be available to advise on a range of topics including business rates, food hygiene, health and safety, websites and social media, business continuity, planning and building control, health & wellbeing in the workplace, becoming a supplier to the council and trading standards.

There are still a few spaces available and the event runs from 5pm-7.30pm at Ebley Mill. Anyone interested in attending should email business.consultation@stroud.gov.uk or call 01453 754296.