MEMBERS of the Academy of Urbanism are visiting Stroud today, Wednesday, to learn more about the town.

Last month the SNJ revealed that Stroud had been named as one of the three greatest towns in the country by being nominated for the Great Town Award by the academy.

The nomination statement described the town as 'one of the more authentically gritty and industrial of the Cotswold towns.'

An assessment panel will look at how well the town is managed and governed as well as its unique qualities and characteristics.

Members will also look at Stroud’s wealth creation and distribution, environmental sustainability and community cohesion as well as to what extent it is an attractive, safe and enticing place for people to live, work and play.

John Thompson, chairman of The Academy of Urbanism, said: "When assessing each finalist for the Great Town award, The Academy of Urbanism looks beyond just attractive streets and buildings, which Stroud undoubtedly has.

"We also look for signs of a place with a strong identity, a dynamic local economy and residents who thrive off a community spirit.

"We look forward to seeing what Stroud has to offer."

The aim of the academy is to identify best practice among towns and cities around Britain and Ireland.

Assessors will begin the day at Stroud College with a presentation before a trip to the Museum in the Park.

Lunch will be held at Stroud Valleys Artspace after a walk around the town centre.

After lunch, a presentation will be given on social enterprise, Stroud Commonwealth, housing development and the Cotswold Canals Project.

The rest of the afternoon will consist of a trip to Milliken’s woollen mill and finally to Ebley Mill council chambers.

The results will be announced at an awards dinner on Friday, November 19 in London.