STROUD TOWN COUNCIL has provided an update on the potential plans to move from their London Road base to the former Locking Hill surgery site. 

The council is currently based at Thanet House in London Road, but it is looking at moving to the former Locking Hill surgery site which closed at the end of 2022 after the Five Valleys Medical Centre opened in King Street. 

In order to pay for this relocation, the council aims to sell 58 London Road and take out a loan from the Public Works Loan Board to buy and refurbish the former surgery. 

The town council commissioned a survey to ask residents if they supported such a move. 

It has now issued an update on the survey results plus the potential next steps. 

Helen Bojaniwska, Chief Executive Officer (Town Clerk), said: "I am delighted to announce that the potential move of Stroud Town Council's offices to the former Locking Hill surgery site is gaining momentum, thanks to an overwhelmingly positive response from our recent consultation.

"With 85 percent of the respondents in favour, it's clear that this move makes good financial sense to many of you.

"Thank you to everyone who voted or contacted us.

"It was great to meet with residents during our day long pop-up in Five Valleys and answer all your questions.

"We have made a note of the reasons some people feel uncertain about the move and will be sure to address these concerns as we move forward.

"The next steps will include reaching out to community groups and our partnership organisations to ensure the new building meets everyone's needs.

"We will also progress all the legal due diligence tasks, like building surveys.

"Any council tax increases will not affect residents until 2025 and we will provide updates on this page.

"The council is committed to making decisions in the best interest of Stroud.

"Thank you for your continued support as we embark on this exciting new opportunity to be of service to the town."