Column by the deputy leader of Stroud District Council, Catherine Braun.

I’m delighted to be writing my first column as Deputy Leader and a member of the District Council’s Labour, Green and Liberal Democrat leadership team. 

Since the elections in May, there’s been a lot going on across the Council’s work with communities and businesses on housing and the environment. 

Last week I was pleased to hear about new plans to support cycling and walking, presented at the Environment Committee. The Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans are being developed in partnership with the County Council, initially for Stroud, with further plans to follow for Cam and Dursley, and then for my own ward of Wotton-under-Edge and for Kingswood. A big increase in cycling and walking is needed to reduce carbon emissions from transport, and these plans will support funding bids for new infrastructure, such as dedicated cycle lanes and bike storage. 

This week, discussions will focus on young people – and how we can give them a stronger voice on matters that affect them. This is important as there are more than 11,000 residents in Stroud District aged between 10 and 19.  Students from eight local schools and colleges already participate in the Stroud District Youth Council. On 24 June, the Community Services and Licensing Committee will discuss how we can work towards the highest level for youth participation in the “Hear by Right” awards run by the National Youth Agency.

In other news, the consultation on the draft Local Plan, the forward plan for development up to 2040, has been extended to 21 July: stroud.gov.uk/environment/planning-and-building-control/planning-strategy/stroud-district-local-plan-review

 Finally, it’s important to be aware that the deadline for the EU Settlement Scheme is approaching (30 June).