BRIMSCOMBE Port could be turned into Stroud’s version of Gloucester Quays.

Stroud District Council plans to buy the historic port and quayside so it can be transformed into a complex of shops, restaurants and up to 150 homes – similar to the development which has taken place at Gloucester’s docks in the past few years.

The council would take control of the land from Stroud Valleys Canals Company (SVCC), and is hoping to secure a £2 million government grant to kick-start the project – with a decision on the funding due on October 14.

The canal would be routed through the port and Martin Whiteside, ward councillor for the area, said the transformation would be "the jewel in the crown" of the ongoing canal restoration.

“Redevelopment could provide much needed homes, jobs, community facilities and an attractive water basin,” he said.

“There is still some way to go, but we are working closely with SVCC and the Government’s Homes and Communities Agency, and are very hopeful we can make this a reality.

“It is vitally important the community are involved in the planning process, so that we get a scheme we can all be proud of.”

If the council secures the £2 million for infrastructure work, which would include raising the bridge near the Ship Inn so the canal can run below, it will look to partner with a developer to create the shops, restaurants and homes.

The development would also include places for canal boats to moor up.

Councillors unanimously voted to bid for the port at a strategy and resources committee meeting on Thursday.

Plans have already been outlined for immediate work, including new access into the site and a new bridge to Brimscombe Hill.

Andy Nash, head of asset management at the council, said the development would create "a new heart and soul’ for Brimscombe.

“There are a number of exciting ideas that have been put forward already,” he said, noting that plans would be similar to those drawn up in 2011 for a scheme which was eventually scrapped due to a lack of funding.

Cllr Bill Harvey, chairman of Brimscombe and Thrupp Parish Council, said: “We’ve been looking at this for a very long time and we’re hopeful the grant can be secured.”

While SVCC currently owns the port, the council has been managing the site on its behalf for almost two years.

Under the new plans, the council would take over the freehold for the site, giving it control over redevelopment there.

The six-mile stretch of canal which runs between Brimscombe and Stonehouse is an important area of cultural heritage.

The port was an industrial hub and the heart of Brimscombe when it opened in the 18th century.