A CONTINENTAL-style piazza could soon be created behind Stroud's Subscription Rooms.

While concrete plans are yet to be revealed, it is believed proposals involve knocking down the public toilets in Bedford Street to leave a European-style square.

The concept was discussed by Stroud Town Council, which met on Monday night.

It is thought an upgraded public convenience block would be built near the new square in a derelict garage in the adjacent Fawkes Place.

And it was suggested that a restaurant could be included as part of the renovation of a property in Kendrick Street, which would be opened up by the creation of a piazza.

Speaking after the meeting, Stroud mayor John Marjoram welcomed the idea of a new open area within the town centre.

"It's a very positive idea to move the toilet so we would have a square," he said.

"It would bring a bit of a European feel and it would really help the utilise the glass fronted area at the back of the Subscription Rooms."

And Carole Garfield, chairman of the Stroud Chamber of Trade, said it was important to make creative uses of public spaces.

"Various ideas have been considered for that space and if one is taken up it needs to fit in with all the different age groups and activities," she said.

"From a trader's point of view anything that makes the town more welcoming with easier places to linger will be a good thing."

The development is currently in the hands of Stroud surveyor and valuer Andrew Watton, who was unavailable for comment as the SNJ went to press.

Plans to replace the Bedford Street toilets with new facilities including a disabled toilet and parent room have been identified as a priority by both the district and town councils.

Bedford Street is also home to Mother Nature food shop and cafe, Burger Star and new clothes boutique Designer Clobber.

Dave Marshall, spokesman for Stroud District Council, said: "Bedford Street toilets form an important part of this jigsaw and we are committed to replacing them in one form or another."