STROUD District Council leader Geoff Wheeler keeps you up to date with what is happening at the council

Thursday, March 12 – Stroud Primary School Mock trials

These mock trials used to take place at Stroud Magistrates Court but since 2012 they have been held at Ebley House. Year six pupils act out the whole court experience as defence and prosecution lawyers, defendants, witnesses, usher, magistrates and even as reporters.

Tuesday, March 17 – Community services and licensing committee

The committee met at 7pm at Ebley Mill to cover a diverse range of topics. Jenny Jancey from the 2gether Trust delivered a presentation on mental health and self-harming in the district, the manager of the Museum in the Park provided an update on the work of the council run facility and the committee discussed work to develop a cycle strategy for the district. The five-year Stroud District Housing Strategy was also on the agenda for the committee to adopt. Also up for the committee to decide on was the council’s updated Discretionary Housing Payment Policy which sets out how we can support housing benefit claimants with government funding funds provided the government.

Thursday, March 19 – environment committee, 7pm Ebley Mill

A similarly broad range of issues were covered by this committee. On the agenda were two presentations. The first was on fracking and the second on nappy recycling – two very different topics, I’m sure you’ll agree but they are an indication of the variety of areas our councillors and staff are involved with. Other items up for discussion included the council’s views on the future of the former Standish Hospital site in the form of a planning concept statement and also a strategy to help preserve habitats and bio-diversity on Rodborough Common.

Craft and Chat

Over the next few weeks elderly residents can try their hand at arts and crafts activities and make new friends at Craft and Chat sessions in Stonehouse, Cam, Nailsworth and Stroud.

They are aimed at addressing social isolation and loneliness among older people, giving them the opportunity to meet new people and give them something to look forward to in their week.

The sessions are free and pre-booking is not required.

For more information on venues and times please call 01453 754304.